I am not Lakers fan, but I would disagree too:)

Howard can be a great great defensive player, and focus on offensive rebounds, put backs, and ally-hoops. But still, you will never have a defensive star as your alpha dog, if you are a contender. 

An even bigger problem is, Howard wants to be the offensive center/focus too, but he never has that ability.

One thing I agree with you though it, Laker's future doesn't lie in Kobe either. He's way passed his prime. They need to find their next corner stone and rebuild.