Dwight free agency: Mitch Kupchak met with Howard on Saturday, according to report

Los Angeles Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak met with Dwight Howard on Saturday prior to the official start of his free agency, reports Sam Amick of USA TODAY. Kupchak discussed Howard's future with the franchise and expressed why he belongs in a Lakers uniform.

Kupchak took full advantage of having Howard under contract and made sure he made a strong opening statement with him by holding the unexpected meeting. The Lakers had full rights to meet with Howard as his contract was still active.

The Houston Rockets were expected to have the first word with Howard once he became a free agent, but Kupchak intervened there as well. Minutes prior to the Rockets meeting with Howard to discuss their vision of the future with the superstar center Kupchak met with Howard in person.

The Lakers front office must now wait for Howard to finish his visits with the Golden State Warriors, Atlanta Hawks and Dallas Mavericks before holding their presentation on Tuesday.

- Drew

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