Former NBA player Joakim Noah recently revealed that he came close to joining LeBron James on the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019.
Noah explained that the Lakers ultimately decided to sign Dwight Howard instead, altering the course of his potential Lakers tenure.
Speaking to Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson on Scoop B Radio, Noah reflected on the near move, sharing his lighthearted response to the decision. “I tried, but they picked Dwight instead,” Noah said with a smile.
Had Noah joined the Lakers, it would have united two former Eastern Conference rivals in an unexpected pairing. Noah and James faced off numerous times during their respective stints with the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers.
Despite coming close to wearing the Purple and Gold, Noah expressed no regret about the Lakers choosing Howard. “I don’t think so,” Noah said when asked if he had second thoughts.
Howard’s signing proved to be a key decision for the Lakers. As a role player, Howard contributed significantly during their 2020 championship run in the NBA Bubble in Orlando, Florida. The Lakers went on to win the NBA Finals, defeating the Miami Heat in six games.
Noah acknowledged that the Lakers formed a great team that year, and he praised James’ leadership during the unique circumstances of the NBA Bubble. “I think LeBron did a really good job of leading that team; in the bubble especially,” Noah said.
Looking back, Noah viewed the situation with perspective, believing that everything worked out for the best. “Everything happens for a reason,” he added, reflecting on the Lakers’ success and Howard’s role in helping them secure the 2020 title.
While Noah never became teammates with James, he respected how the Lakers handled that season, particularly under the leadership of James. The pairing of Howard and James led to a championship, proving the Lakers’ decision correct.
