Celtics Title Town

Lakers say Dwight won't start camp on time

The Lakers say center Dwight Howard won’t finish his by rehabilitation from back surgery in time for the start of training camp or Los Angeles’ first preseason game.The Lakers gave an update on the newly acquired center’s condition on their website Thursday night.

I'm sure he'll be fine at some point. The big question will be if he can return to full strength, and I think he'll be fine when he comes back. Silver Screen says this about Howard's pending return.

Report: No Setbacks for Dwight, No October 7th Opener-Silver screen and roll

While he isn't playing in a full contact game, or taking a Kevin Garnett forearm to his lower back, the fact that he's mobile is a good sign for Los Angeles. Through the summer there were reports that he wasn't even in running shape yet, which set off red flags in  trading for the superstar center. Still, the Lakers ponied up Andrew Bynum, his gigantic knee brace, and a bit of cap space, and clearly believe Howard will return to elite form despite coming off of surgery. A back injury can be debilitating to any career, which is why both the Lakers and Dwight have echoed the same sentiment repeatedly; 100% health is the number one concern, there will be no rush or corners cut. This is a long term strategy.