Dwight Howard said he's been taking more of a leadership approach this summer in an effort to make the team better and win a championship this season, USA Today reports.

Howard said he's been taking more of a leadership approach this summer in an effort to make the team better and win a championship this season, USA Today reports.

Analysis:

Howard had a crazy free agency period last offseason, being wined and dined by teams all over the league. He then signed with the Rockets and had a decent year playing aside James Harden, finishing the season with averages of 18.3 points, 12.2 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.8 blocks in 34 minutes per game. The Rockets were ousted in the first round of the playoffs by the Trail Blazers so it was another bitter end to a season for Howard. He believes he didn't truly lead his team like he needed to and has been taking that approach this summer by being in the weight room every day with his teammates and just doing everything he can to be a leader and set an example. The Rockets are looking to bring in a third big name this offseason, but either way, look for Howard to come out next season with a better attitude and drive in order to make a championship run.