After the big moves made this off season the Los Angeles Lakers have once again risen to the elite ranks in the NBA with an impressive starting lineup consisting of Steve Nash, Kobe Bryant, Metta World Peace, Pau Gasol and Dwight Howard.

Though the lineup is impressive, Lakers fans may have to wait a few months until they see this group playing on the court together.

Howard is currently dealing with a back injury and he will miss some playing time in order to ensure a healthy recovery. The Lakers are fine with waiting for Howard and Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak spoke to Sports Illustrated and he talked about Howard's rehab process. At this point everything seems to be going as planned and Howard is expected to make a full recovery.

Kupchak had this to say:

"We had the doctors and the back people obviously examine him and he's on track. He should recover completely."

The current roster has potential to do some great things this upcoming season. There is no doubt that the team is capable of winning an NBA championship and it would mean great things for the players and fans of L.A. Nash would finally get his first ring and Kobe would finally tie Jordan with six titles.

But for all that to happen, the Lakers must first ensure Howard makes a full healthy recovery. It's smart to keep Howard sidelined because he is the best center in the league and there's no need to rush him back on the court with such a long season ahead.