The Los Angeles Lakers have had a terribly disappointing start to the season, failing to meet universally high expectations following the acquisitions of Dwight Howard and Steve Nash.

"I'm still excited about this team," said Jim Buss. "Injuries have played such a huge part. I'm not frustrated at the players at all."

Buss is confident that the Lakers will retain Howard in the offseason.

"95 percent, we'll be able to keep him," said Buss.

Howard will be an unrestricted free agent.