Marc Spears reported on Friday that seven-foot rookie C Ronnie Aguilar is a “dark horse candidate” to make the roster due to Dwight Howard’s back issues.
The Lakers would be crazy not to look at alternatives while they wait-and-see how Howard’s rehabilitation plays out, so we’re not getting too high or low based off this report. Drafters should be selecting Howard with the understanding that it could be a slow start, anyway, though a setback or missed timetable could suggest more time off than less time off. It’s worth noting that Howard’s recovery has appeared to be going well and it’s still possible he plays in the opener, but like the Heat with Dwyane Wade they’re going to be cautious.