NBA Rumors: Chicago Bulls and More Potential Landing Spots for Josh Howard

Small forward Josh Howard, most recently a member of the Washington Wizards, is an intriguing free-agent option for contending teams without much cap space. Several squads have already contacted Howard's representatives, according to Chris Broussard, but here are the three best fits.

Chicago Bulls

Chicago's offensive attack could use another weapon to go along with Derrick Rose, Carlos Boozer and Luol Deng. Howard wouldn't be asked to play extended minutes, which should help his durability problems, and could provide some veteran leadership off the bench.

The Bulls are going to need a lot of depth if they're going to hang with the big three in Miami. Since Chicago doesn't have that third marquee name, a relentless rotation at every position may allow them to wear down the Heat over a long series.

Howard would be a step in the right direction and should come at a fair price because of his injury woes, even with a handful of suitors.

Boston Celtics

The Celtics have been looking for some extra scoring punch to take some pressure off Paul Pierce. That sounds like a role Howard would excel in, especially since he'll be able to work with one of the game's best playmaking point guards in Rajon Rondo.

Boston's core is getting up there in age, so the originators of the three superstar approach are running out of time to win championships. Adding Howard would be the perfect under-the-radar signing that could help the Celtics stay afloat come playoff time.

The Celtics have been linked with a possible marquee trade involving Rondo, but they'd be better off sticking with smaller moves.

San Antonio Spurs

San Antonio's front office knows the dynasty they've built is running out of gas but, if they make a couple additions like Howard, there's still another run left in the team's aging legs. That's especially true considering the Spurs will benefit from a shortened season.

Richard Jefferson has been a major failure and might get let go though the amnesty clause, which would give the Spurs some cap room to work with. Howard could also serve as a mentor to rookie Kawhi Leonard, who San Antonio traded for on draft night.

If Howard can stay healthy, he could be the piece to make sure the Spurs don't get eliminated in the first round for the second straight season.