After mentioning on Twitter that he would like to work out with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, new Los Angeles Laker Dwight Howard took the first step towards that plan by sitting down with the Hall of Fame center Monday afternoon.

Howard then tweeted a picture of the two of them together with the caption, “Me and @kaj33 together. For many years to come.”

The “many years to come” will surely come as music to the ears of Lakers fans worried that Howard might leave after this season when he becomes an unrestricted free agent. Howard said he has not talked about an extension with the Lakers and won’t do so until this season is over.

Howard was asked if he was going to work out with Abdul-Jabbar. “I am,” Howard responded. “When I am released.”

Howard was referring to getting clearance from his doctors to return to the court after undergoing back surgery in April. The six-time All-Star hopes to be back some time in October.

Abdul-Jabbar responded to Howard’s tweet with a tweet of his own on Monday.

“Lots of news about me and DH – would be great to coach him but as of now still haven’t met him,” Abdul-Jabbar tweeted. “Laker fans hope for the best always!”

via Arash Markazi of ESPN