Dwight Howard Rumors: Rockets Star Reportedly Expected to Leave in Free Agency
In one of the least surprising developments this NBA season, Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard is reportedly expected to opt out of his contract and leave via free agency this summer.
Per ESPN.com's Calvin Watkins, the list of favorites to sign Howard include the Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, Portland Trail Blazers and Charlotte Hornets.
A possible reunion with the Magic was first reported by Bleacher Report's Ric Bucher on March 25:
Rumors of Howard opting out of the final year of his contract have been prominent since USA Today's Sam Amick reported last December that was the former All-Star's intention. He quoted Howard in the piece as saying he wants "to make this thing work here" in Houston.
However, Watkins' report shows Howard's standing with the Rockets has been a problem throughout the season:
"There is a perception that several players are not happy with Howard based on a February team meeting, after which one person close to the Rockets said, "If you want the ball, you need to speak up about it. He lost players' respect."
One player offered a different view, saying he didn't mind if Howard spoke up or not. "We just need to play basketball," the player said.
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Specifically, one team source described Howard's chemistry with James Harden as being "cordially bad." Watkins did note the two tried to build a friendly relationship, but on the court, things haven't worked out.
In addition to the lack of chemistry with Harden, Howard's potential decision to opt out makes sense from a financial perspective. His current deal will pay him $23.2 million next season.
The NBA's salary cap is projected to hit an all-time high $89 million for the 2016-17 season. More spending money available for teams makes it more likely Howard will be able to at least secure one more huge deal—if not get a full max contract—before his career ends.
Howard had one of the least productive seasons in his 12-year career in 2015-16. The 30-year-old averaged 13.7 points on 8.5 attempts per game, both his lowest marks since he was a rookie. He did average a double-double for the 12th straight season, but, per Basketball-Reference.com, his 6.6 win shares were a career low (minimum 50 games played).
Even with those declining numbers, the 6'11", 265-pound Howard remains one of the NBA's most productive centers. Teams are always in search of size and will spend big money for it. Enes Kanter is receiving $70 million over four years from the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Howard went to Houston three years ago, helped the franchise reach the playoffs each season and made the Western Conference Finals last year. Barring a miracle comeback against the Golden State Warriors in the first round, the Rockets won't win a title during his tenure, but it was not a complete disaster.
It's just going to end that way because of how dysfunctional things with the Rockets have been this season.
Contract information per Hoopshype.com.
