Houston Rockets 2015 Media Day: Dwight Howard Says ‘We Can Be Special’

Continuing the Houston Rockets 2015 Media Day, Dwight Howard took to the podium to discuss his new team, opportunity and what he expects.

No surprise the focus on Dwight Howard today had everything to do with health and maintaining that through this season. He feels great and is excited to start the season. Dwight emulated the words of Harden who said if they stay healthy they could win the championship.

Howard is looking forward to the challenge, saying he feels the team overcame so much adversity last year and while he knows the West is loaded he believes they have a real opportunity to improve upon last season.

#Rockets @DwightHoward talking about the impact working w/ @NBA greats Kevin McHale & Hakeem Olajuwon has had on him pic.twitter.com/Z40UNfoARJ

— ROOT SPORTS SW (@ROOTSPORTSSW) September 28, 2015

Howard feels the talent, experience and coaches gives Houston a chance to do something “very special” this season.

Asked about what the team will do to manage Howard’s work load he cited his major focus in the off season was to learn more about how to get the most from his body when he’s on the court. He also plans to take a bigger leadership role specifically with Clint Capela. He joked Capela now weighs 150 pounds after weighing only 100 pounds last season.

Howard was asked about specifics like playing with his back to the basket and he reiterated he’ll give 100% when he plays and be actively involved off the court (mentoring) when he’s not.

Rockets to keep close eye on Dwight Howard's workload http://t.co/Gy74jNE0DY

— Jonathan Feigen (@Jonathan_Feigen) September 28, 2015

He also spoke very philosophically about how he can be a better player, teammate and citizen in his community.

Entering his 12 season Howard cited the changes he’s made to his diet and off season activities in order to give his body more rest. He recognizes now that rest is the key to recovery and that now that he’s reaching 30 he can’t eat sweets or not give his body the vital rest it needs.

.@DwightHoward: "We've got a chance to do something special. That's the only thing that's been on our mind. We believe." #Rockets

— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) September 28, 2015

It seems like Howard is now getting reflective, saying he takes nothing for granted. He’s watching the 20 year old players enter the league and finds it incredible it’s his 12th season. Howard is intent on Harden and him being solid from a leadership perspective for the team and notes how much Harden has grown as a player and a leader.

Howard feels Capela can continue to grow and joked Clint even eats during practice he’s so motivated to gain mass and that he’s a quick learner.

One reporter pointed out how happy everyone seems to which Howard responded “We believe” he added he feels “the team grew up” through last season’s injury and adversity. To wit, he’s been keeping Donatas Motiejunas motivated since he himself went through back surgery saying the most important thing is to stay confident and not stress out.

Here @HoustonRockets #mediaday @BartEnisRS talked w/ @DwightHoward on what it takes to win in the playoffs #Rockets pic.twitter.com/XSaeXwWQO5

— ROOT SPORTS SW (@ROOTSPORTSSW) September 28, 2015

Of note: clicking the Twitter link below will allow you to view his interview in it’s entirety:

Media Day 2015 – Dwight Howard http://t.co/acTLA8WxnN via @houstonrockets

— Space City Scoop (@SpaceCity_Scoop) September 29, 2015

Of note, I have to say while Howard did joke a little this was the most focused and mature I’ve seen him at any season start. He appears to be driven and it seems like the injuries last season really made him appreciate every moment he has left in his career. Could this be the year the man child drops the child from his moniker and simply becomes a true leader!

Stay with Space City Scoop as we bring you the highlights from the player’s at the podium today and make sure to make us a daily stop for all things Houston Rockets. As we gear up for the season watch for our Space City Scoop team Round Table or our Player Profiles.

Next: James Harden Player Profile

Next: SCS Round Table Off Season Part 1

Next: SCS Round Table Off Season Part 2

Houston Rockets 2015 Media Day: Dwight Howard Says ‘We Can Be Special’

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