Yesterday it was reported that Los Angeles Lakers free agent center Dwight Howard was not too pleased with how he was being used by coach Mike D'Antoni, leaving GM Mitch Kupchak to step in and mediate the situation.

Howard and Kupchak spoke privately after finishing their standard meeting with D'Antoni on April 30, but Kupchak claims there was no talk with Howard about D'Antoni once he left the room.

This goes in contrast to reports that suggested that Howard and Kupchak centered around Howard's frustration with D'Antoni - particularly how the center felt marginalized as the coach looked to Bryant and Steve Nash for leadership and suggestions and discounted Howard's voice.

Regardless of what was said, Kupchak was clear that he isn't worried about the situation, especially after D'Antoni featured Howard more and won more games late in the seaon.

"I'm not saying they don't have differences like with any coach or any player. I don't think it's anything that goes beyond."

Kupchak left the meeting with Howard undeterred, telling reporters he was "hopeful" and "optimistic" that Howard would be back with the Lakers next season and beyond, yet there have been several developments in the last couple weeks that could have an effect on Howard's decision.

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