NBA Rumors: Dwight Howard says he needs attitude change
By Bryan Rose
When you think of Dwight Howard, you think of a talented basketball player who outside of a year in Los Angeles, likes to have fun on the floor. Of course, when a player does such, it leads to questions about their desire and commitment to win, even from fellow teammates.
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That was something we saw brought up time and time again during Howard’s short stint with the Lakers but not wanting to change his ways, Howard continued his fun loving antics as he signed with the Houston Rockets. Unfortunately, their season came to a premature end as the Rockets were eliminated from the postseason a bit too early which has lead Howard to suggest he needs an attitude change.
Asked about what he and the Rockets need to do differently next season, Howard gave the following response to USA Today.
“I just think our attitude, and it starts with me. My attitude in the playoffs was a little bit different. I had my fun. I joked around, but I’ve got to make sure that for 48 minutes on the floor I’m dominating. I know people are used to seeing me smiling and having a good time, and I’m going to have a good time, but at the same time I want to win. That’s the reason why I play this game. And for so long, I’ve been ridiculed for having fun on the floor, but I just think I’ve got to change my approach to certain things – how I am in the locker room, how I am in practice, all that stuff.”
I’m not sure Howard needs to change his attitude, per say, but maybe have a stronger commitment to win. Of course, that’s not necessarily something that you can just flip on or off.