NBA Free Agency: Predicting Where Dwight Howard Signs

Mar 30, 2013; Sacramento, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard (12) reacts after the Sacramento Kings made a basket in the fourth quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Lakers defeated the Kings 103-98. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Why does Dwight Howard have to make a big deal out of everything that he does? Well, it sure as hell annoys me that he’s one of the best centers in the league, and he knows that.

He refuses to play with full potential, and is still one of the league’s best. This is why multiple teams are trying to acquire him. Which of those teams, however, actually have a good shot?

Well when you break it down, a team is only as alluring as their players. Money, at this stage in Howard’s career, is really not an issue. He just wants to win a championship. Going to the Rockets, the Warriors, and possibly the Clippers would really make these teams all contenders.

1. Rockets:

On Sportsnation’s poll, 60% of of the US thinks that Howard will sign with the Rockets, and I agree with them. For starters, the Rockets are willing to trade Jeremy Lin and Omer Asik to clear space for him, and I think that Houston would be a good fit for Dwight. It’s certainly not a big city like LA, but it has it’s perks. Howard would flourish in a small market team.

What many don’t realize is that in trading Lin, the Rockets have the option to now start Patrick Bevearly at the point guard spot. He did so well, and many think that he’s going to be a future star, just because of his postseason performance. I also tend to agree with that because he has the competitive fire and what it takes. He and Howard could be a dangerous combo. Let’s also not forget that James Harden guy.

2. Lakers:

The Lakers: how could he not re-sign with them? They all want him there, and even though things didn’t go so well, Kobe Bryant, in what may be his last season, could turn up the fire. If Howard is motivated, he could lead the Lakers to a championship.

In LA, however, too much pressure is on him to perform well.

The Lakers are a likely option for Howard, but he’ll likely go wherever he sees most attractive. For him, the Lakers may not be a great fit,  but that doesn’t mean he can’t stay in LA..

3. Clippers:

The Clippers are the second best choice for Howard. Reports indicate that they’re still trying to acquire him. Blake Griffin would likely be traded to the Lakers in return. CP3 and Howard have bee reportedly sending each other text messages regarding where to play. Now that Paul is returning to LAC, Howard may want to join him.

4. Warriors: 

Earlier this week, when Howard met with the Warriors, a sneaky camera man caught a picture of he and Stephen Curry working out together. Sure, they may be “just friends”, but what does this really mean?

Are Howard and Curry looking to join forces in Oakland? That would be advantageous to the Warriors and Howard, but for the Dubs, it means giving up either Harrison Barnes or Klay Thompson, two vital parts to their offense.

It’s really a tough decision for the Warriors, but Howard may not really want to sign with them.

Which Place is the Most Suitable for Howard?