5 landing spots for Dwight Howard after failing NBA comeback with Warriors
After being selected first by the Orlando Magic in the 2004 NBA draft, Dwight Howard was considered to be one of the best big men playing in the game during the height of his career. In the 18 seasons he played in the league, he averaged 15.7 points per game (58.7% shooting, including 21.4% from 3-point range) and 11.8 rebounds.
However, his last season in the league was the 2021-22 season with the LA Lakers and has been playing overseas ever since. The Athletic's Shams Charania recently reported that Howard was working out with the Golden State Warriors ahead of the 2023-24 season.
However, the NBA insider reported that the Warriors won't be signing Dwight Howard.
If the Golden State Warriors had acquired Howard, he would have provided size at the center position. Irrespective of if he would have started or come off the bench, his presence would have given the Warriors an upgrade on size and rim protection.
This article will look into five NBA teams that can possibly land Dwight Howard following the recent update on his status with the Warriors.
Five NBA teams that Dwight Howard can possibly land with
In the scenario that Dwight Howard could potentially return to the NBA, here's a look at five NBA teams that can land him:
5) New York Knicks
The Knicks are fresh off a promising 2022-23 season after finishing fifth in the Eastern Conference standings. Despite getting eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by the Miami Heat, the Knicks can continue their success in the upcoming regular season.
With that said, Dwight Howard would make an interesting addition to the team as he is also known for his defensive capabilities. Coupled with his playoff and championship experience, Howard could prove to be a quality acquisition for his locker room and veteran presence.
4) Phoenix Suns
After Bradley Beal joined the Phoenix Suns, the Suns have been acquiring free agents through veteran minimum deals.
With a limited bench, adding Dwight Howard to the mix can boost the team's defensive presence at the center position. This can prove beneficial in the postseason when it comes to certain matchups.
3) Brooklyn Nets
The Brooklyn Nets would be an interesting landing spot for Howard if he ends up returning to the NBA. Interestingly, according to an interview with Complex Magazine's Zion Olojede, Howard has always considered playing for the Nets.
However, it never came to fruition as the team was looking for a big man who could stretch the floor, which Howard lacked. Be that as it may, Dwight Howard's NBA experience cannot be understated as he remained a quality defensive big throughout his career.
If he was added to the team, Howard could be a guiding presence for the Nets' cast of young players.
2) Dallas Mavericks
During the 2022-23 season, the Dallas Mavericks finished 25th in defensive ratings at a 116.1 rating. With Grant Williams' addition, their defense can certainly see some improvement.
The Mavericks can go further by adding Howard. A defensive big who can also crash the boards effectively can aid the Mavericks in the long run, especially with how Doncic and Irving will be running the team's offense.
1) Sacramento Kings
Lastly, at the No. 1 spot are the Sacramento Kings. In an interview with The Observer's Mark Haynes, Howard talked about his interest in playing for the Kings.
"I would love to help the Sacramento Kings," Howard said, "contend for a title. Even though I believe their team is pretty much set."
Following the cuts of Nerlens Noel and Neemias Queta, Howard could certainly fill the backup center gap for the Kings. With the team having a young squad, Howard can be a proper veteran presence. Additionally, the Kings can also acquire Howard without spending too much.