By most accounts, the Lakers are not a good defensive team. They're currently 20th in the NBA with 106.4 points allowed per 100 possessions, a crippling notion for a team that was supposed to improve defensively under Howard's control.
Truth be told, however, the blame for Los Angeles' defensive woes cannot be put upon Howard's shoulders.
As the behemoth himself notes (via Dave McMenamin of ESPNLosAngeles.com), everyone in Los Angeles has to step up their defensive awareness:
"Guys got to be in the right spots and they have to be taught it and it has to be something that you practice on so guys can understand," Howard said, visibly frustrated as he spoke. "They have to go through it. You just can't talk about defense or talk about where to go. You actually have to show guys where to go."
Could Howard's sentiments be interpreted as a shot at his team or head coach Mike D'Antoni? Absolutely, but regardless of his intentions, his words hold merit nonetheless.
This team has to pick up the defensive intensity, they have to understand the concept of rotations, fighting over screens and communication. They have to pick up on the groundwork that Howard himself is laying. They must emulate the effort that he and his injured back are continuing to put forth.
Yes, the Lakers are allowing 2.7 points more per 100 possessions with Howard on the court, a differential that is troubling. But that doesn't even begin to tell the entire story.
Los Angeles is allowing 107.1 points per 48 minutes with Howard off the floor compared to 106.4 with him on. A huge difference? Not at all, but it is irrefutable evidence that Howard makes his defensive presence felt when on the court.
Just as importantly, the center accounts 6...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
