Dwight Howard Decision: The Lakers Thankfully Saved from Themselves

Los Angeles Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak's statement on Dwight Howard's decision reads as an episode in disappointment, but has a distinct air of relief to it—and rightfully so.

It's about moving on. It's about finding a "different direction." It's about building "the best team possible."

And it's about liberating themselves from the Dwight Howard apathy that plagued the ballclub last season and was sure to plague them for five more years if the Lakers unwillingly got their way.