dwight david howard (born december 8, 1985 in atlanta, georgia) is a professional basketball player. he plays for the los angeles lakers of the national basketball association (nba). his position is center. the magic chose howard with the first pick overall in the 2004 nba draft. howard did not play college basketball. he entered the draft right out of high school. howard is one of the greatest rebounders and defensive players in the history of basketball. he is the nba's active leader in offensive rebounds, total rebounds and blocked shots.