It's not Howard that's going to make the big difference for the Lakers, it's Nash...assuming Kobe gives him the ball...lol
As long as Kobe accepts a new role and assuming Howard is ready after surgery, the Lakers will put up a good fight against the Thunder and or Spurs in the end.
I mean with Nash controlling the ball and watching things unfold..he'll know where the double team is sliding too, if they begin to collapse on Howard, Kobe get's it or Gasol...etc, etc..and if whoever is defending Nash falls off to help out...wll...Nash is a pretty good shooter as well.
A whole new team the Lakers have with a true Point Guard...and maybe one of the top 3-5 all time in the NBA.