NBA Rumors: Another Addition to Dwight Howard's List Proves He's Full of It

Is Dwight Howard toying with us, or does he think we're as squirrelly as he's making himself seem? Now, he's added the Boston Celtics as a team he'd listen to for a free-agent contract. If Danny Ainge falls into this trap, he's nuts. He owes it to the franchise to at least send a feeler out on the world's best big man come this offseason, but I wouldn't hold my breath.

Now, Howard's infamous and confusing list contains the L.A. Lakers, Orlando Magic, New Jersey Nets and the Boston Celtics. The Clippers were recently added then quickly removed. Howard says his main objective is winning. Really...really...really? Does he think we're all crazy?

Should we all just ignore the fact that he never mentions Chicago as a destination? Despite the fact that he and Derrick Rose potentially make the most dominant combination in the sport, yes LeBron James and Dwyane Wade included. The are both young, at the forefront of their positions, and received No. 1 and No. 2 in the 2010-2011 MVP voting.

Should we also ignore the fact that his current team is 12-5 and willing to add substantial pieces around him, while the Celtics are 7-9 with an aging roster that may not even make the postseason this year? Sure, the Celtics will have Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett's contract spots to sign free agents, but how is that significantly better than Orlando and Chicago?

It isn't better. This isn't about winning for Howard, at least not entirely. This is about bright lights, big cities, shoe contracts and tons of attention. Despite what others may say, I don't blame him for what he covets. Every man has different motivations, his is his own, and he's entitled.

What is perplexing to me is the unnecessary and untrue references to winning. It is an insult to the intelligence of any basketball fan. Why can't he just say that it's about more than basketball salary and winning? He has to consider the lifestyle he wants, too.

I know (to put a slight tweak on a famous Tupac line) that would likely be the realest thing he ever spoke. D12 wouldn't want to deal with the firestorm from that candid comment. So why not just be quiet?

When Howard is asked what teams he would consider signing with he should say, "I do not wish to discuss my plans until that time has come."  That's it. No more, no less.

To quote actress Paula Jai Parker from the urban movie classic Friday, "You ain't got to lie, Dwight, you ain't got to lie."

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