LeBron James or Kobe Bryant? Dwight Howard's shocking pick in the legendary NBA debate between his two former teammates
Very few players in NBA history can say they suited up alongside both
and LeBron James—two of the league's most iconic figures. Dwight Howard is one of them. From his brief but impactful stint with Bryant in 2012–13 to winning a title with LeBron during the Lakers' 2020 bubble run, Howard witnessed both legends up close.
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And recently, he offered his unfiltered take on who he'd trust more with the game on the line—a debate fans have argued for years.
Dwight Howard declares Kobe Bryant the ultimate clutch king over LeBron James
Appearing on the 'Club 520 Podcast' hosted by Jeff Teague, Howard didn't dodge the question. He spoke with honesty and respect for both, but drew a firm line when asked who he'd choose in the biggest moments.
Dwight Howard REGRETS leaving Magic, LeBron vs. Kobe, Derrick Rose MVP battle | Jeff Teague Club 520
'Everything combined, you got to give it to LeBron,' Howard said. 'Scoring-wise, I got to say I like Kobe.
If it's late in the game, I'm giving the ball to Kobe. I'm not going to give the ball to LeBron late in the game. I'm going to give it to Kobe.'
When
first joined the Lakers in 2012,
was still in elite form, averaging 27.3 points across 78 games and dragging the team to the postseason before a devastating Achilles injury ended his campaign. That season left a lasting impression on Howard, who saw firsthand how Kobe's footwork, scoring arsenal, and ruthless mentality dominated late-game situations.
Fast forward to 2020: Howard returned to L.A., this time as a veteran role player alongside
. That year, LeBron led the Lakers to their 17th championship inside the Orlando bubble. Howard contributed on the defensive end and the glass, ultimately earning the first ring of his career.
Howard acknowledged LeBron's greatness—his longevity, basketball IQ, leadership, and unmatched versatility. But when it comes down to the final possession, his mind doesn't waver.
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Howard's rare experience of playing with both Kobe and LeBron gives his words extra weight. His take highlights the very essence of what makes this debate so timeless. Is greatness about consistency and leadership? Or about killer instinct and scoring in the biggest moments?
In the end, there may never be a definitive answer. But for Dwight Howard—who stood in the huddle with both—when the game is on the line, one name still rises above.
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