Written by Taylor Odenat
Dwight Howard is approaching unrestricted free agency following the conclusion of the Houston Rockets postseason. When Howard was a free agent a few seasons ago, he didn’t handle the situation all that well. Before his actual contract was terminated with the Magic, he forced his way out of Orlando and was granted a trade to the Los Angeles Lakers in a four-team deal. After joining the Houston Rockets a few seasons ago with huge aspirations, he has yet to eclipse the Western Conference Finals. Additionally, this season there were stirring rumors that Howard and James Harden, who Howard was excited to play with, tried to get each other shipped off. With Howard developing durability issues and problems with the franchise’s top player, it seems his time in H-Town has come to an end. The only question now is, where will Howard sign in free agency?
Since his departure from Orlando, Howard hasn’t made a significant impact on an organization; and at this point it might be too late. His statistics might disagree with that statement, considering he averaged a double-double this past regular season with the Rockets and the season prior to his exit from the Lakers. However, his impact on these franchises hasn’t allowed him to capture that championship ring that he covets so dearly. At this point of his career, he isn’t getting any younger and isn’t the same commanding force that he once was.
Once upon a time, there was no discussion for who was going to win Defensive Player of the Year. From 2008-2011, D12 dominated the annual award and even the year he didn’t win the trophy he still finished third in the voting. Fast forward to present day, Howard is an aging center with knee and back concerns. Is the man once monikered “Superman “still worth a max contract?
DH12 has botched his tenures at his last two locations, so the fourth time has to be the charm. His free agent decision will come down who can provide him with the highest salary or who give him the opportunity to win a championship. After reports of Howard considering a return to Orlando, it looks like he’s seeking the former. Joining the Magic would be an awful decision. Only a mere four years has gone by after that terrible situation that occurred between the two parties. Howard wouldn’t propel the roster to a championship contender and he’s not much of a veteran leader to use that as justification for signing.
Dwight could find a new home in a young team with a dynamic roster and innovative coach such as the Boston Celtics; but their money should be used elsewhere. There’s also the possibility of cashing out and inking a contract with a team that has no hopes of winning in the foreseeable future; see the Philadelphia 76ers. However, that would result poorly for both Howard and Philly. After Dwight eliminates all of the nonsensical options, he should take a trip to Miami and having a meeting with Pat Riley.
The Miami Heat should be one of Howard’s prime destinations. He’ll immediately be on a roster in title contention with a intelligent coach, cunning front office, and tons of veterans lead by superstar Dwyane Wade. Hassan Whiteside is currently their center and has experienced rapid development. However, he’s an unrestricted free agent and will command tons of dollars. If the Heat decide to part ways with Whiteside, then Howard is a great second option. Miami will pay less money for the aging center than they would for the shot blocking extraordinaire, and Howard finds a suitable new home. Both sides benefit with this deal, Howard gets a strong chance at a ring and Miami won’t have to pay the steep price to retain Whiteside. D12 should consider his options, test the waters, but eventually sign a contract sending him to the “Magic City.”
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