The Los Angeles Lakers enter an uncertain offseason that will be dictated by their ability to re-sign Dwight Howard.
"We're very confident that we can build around Dwight Howard," said Mitch Kupchak.
Kupchak had a long conversation with Howard on Tuesday that he felt went well. Kupchak did confess that it is difficult for him to be fully confident of Howard returning to the Lakers.
"I think he understands: the sooner, the better for everybody," said Kupchak about when Howard may make a decision.
Howard also addressed the media on Tuesday.
"I just want an opportunity to make a decision for myself to make myself happy," Howard said. "I just don't want any pressure from anybody."
Howard also wants to avoid his free agency becoming an event unto itself the way his departure from the Orlando Magic materialized.
"I'm not gonna allow any of the fake rumors from last year to happen this year. If something comes out, you're going to hear from me."
Howard wrapped his interview session by indicating that the most memorable moment from the 12-13 season with the Lakers was when he was pranked by his teammates in the preseason to run out of the tunnel by himself.
