Dwight Howard, a former member of the 2020 Los Angeles Lakers championship team, criticized General Manager Rob Pelinka for dismantling the roster after their title win. On his podcast, Howard expressed that the team had the potential to succeed again if they had 'run it back,' suggesting that injuries were the main issue the following season rather than roster changes. He emphasized the chemistry and talent of the original squad, lamenting that Pelinka's decisions led to missed opportunities for another championship. Critics argue the Lakers have struggled to regain championship form, with poor trades, such as the acquisition of Russell Westbrook, exacerbating their difficulties. The franchise's failure to retain key players like Alex Caruso further contributed to their decline. Overall, Howard's comments reflect a broader sentiment among fans that the Lakers could have capitalized on their 2020 success instead of making significant changes.