When Dwight 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, Howard 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 organisation, 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 affect on these franchises hasn’t allowed him to capture that championship ring that he covets so dearly.
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 ageing centre with knee and back concerns. Is the man once called ‘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, with only four years having gone by after that terrible situation. 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 Heat should be one of Howard’s prime destinations. He’ll immediately be on a roster in title contention, with an intelligent coach, a cunning front office, and tons of veterans, led by superstar Dwyane Wade.
Hassan Whiteside is currently their centre, 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 ageing 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.
Dwight Howard should consider his options, test the waters, then sign a contract sending him to the ‘Magic City’.
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