For the most part the heat has come down off Dwight Howard after his controversial departure from the Orlando Magic and disappointing season with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Howard seems to be back to his happy go lucky self as well as increasing his production after suffering back injuries.  He’s averaging 18.8 points per game, 12.5 rebounds per game and 1.8 blocks per game.  He’s gained back so much of his confidence that he says he’s the best in the game.

via Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle:

“I know I’m going to get a lot (criticism), but I have to believe in myself as being the best player,” Howard said when asked if James or Durant was the NBA’s best player. “That’s how I think everyone in this room feels. They’re not going to say that this person is better than them. We have to believe that. No matter what the stats say, you have to go on the floor with that kind of mentality. ‘I’m the best player on the floor every night.’

While he will indeed get a lot of criticism for this comment, he’s also right.  As a player you have to believe you’re the best, you have to be confident.  Aside from just thinking it however, Dwight needs to actually do it.  He’s not even the best center in the league although he once was.  It’s a position that doesn’t have too many candidates and it’s one he should dominate easily.  We’ll see if he continues to improve.

– Shaina Auxilly (@Shay_Marie)