Dwight Howard: LeBron Is Stronger Than Kobe Overall, but I’d Give the Ball to Kobe in Clutch Moments

Hall of Fame legend and former Lakers player Dwight Howard recently discussed his experiences playing with LeBron James and Kobe Bryant during his Lakers stints on a podcast. Howard believes James is better than Bryant overall, but would trust Bryant more with the ball in clutch moments.

As the 2004 NBA No. 1 overall pick, Howard played for the Lakers twice: during the 2012-13 season and the 2019-20 season. His first Lakers tenure came at the peak of his career, but he and Bryant were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. When Bryant missed the playoffs due to a season-ending injury, the Lakers were swept 0-4 by the Spurs in the first round.

Howard joined the Lakers again in the twilight of his career, serving as a blue-collar player alongside James. He helped the Lakers win the 2020 NBA championship, securing his first career title and ending the team’s decade-long championship drought. Having played with both superstars in Los Angeles, Howard is uniquely positioned to comment. "When looking at overall ability, you have to admit LeBron is better," he said.

When discussing their scoring prowess—especially in high-pressure situations—Howard clarified: "I have to say I prefer Kobe. If the game is on the line, I’m giving him the ball. I wouldn’t give it to LeBron in the final moments; my choice is Kobe."