Houston Rockets Daily Rocket Science: The Latest on Superman
By Coty Davis
On a quiet day in Clutch City, SCS takes a look at the most recent rumors regarding Dwight Howard and his free agency plans with the Houston Rockets.
Shortly after their 114-81 elimination loss to the Golden State Warriors, many assumed that Game 5 was Dwight Howard‘s last performance with the Houston Rockets. Especially after his ESPN interview with Jackie MacMullan. In which Howard revealed details on how Daryl Morey denied his request to get more involved in the Rockets offense.
Despite giving the organization an ultimatum in their decision to hire Mike D’Antoni, it seems as if Howard and the Rockets may give their marriage a second chance. According to Nathan Francis of the Inquisitr, D12 could return to Clutch City if his free agency market is not strong.
"The NBA rumors surrounding Dwight Howard have pointed to a number of potential destinations — from a return to the Orlando Magic to a move to Chicago — but new reports suggest that the big man may end up staying with the Houston Rockets after all. As he nears free agency, the All-Star center seemed to be a hot ticket. Though his athleticism has waned a bit as he was hit with a number of injuries, Howard is still an effective scorer and was reportedly coveted by close to 10 teams with varying levels of interest."
Surprisingly, the interest level in a possible Superman return is mutual. Following Howard’s publicly criticizing statements over the past month, it is hard to imagine who within the Rockets organization would want him back.
However, according to Sports Rageous reporter Jeykesy Baruelo, the Rockets have revealed their plan to welcome their all-star center back.
"NBA rumors and speculations are now swirling around the Houston Rockets regarding their offseason plan for their star center Dwight Howard if he stays with the team and plays under new head coach Mike D’Antoni or if he opts out of his final year of his contract with the team. Dwight Howard is the type of player who prefers back-down post-ups while Mike D’Antoni is the type of coach who is known for pace-and-space style. This means that in order to be fit for the Rockets, Howard should make a huge adjustment with how he plays."
Although it may sound like the Rockets and Howard are ready to sing Kumbaya and continue what they started three years ago. D12 is a highly sought after free agent, and a possible return to Houston still seems highly unlikely.
Of all the teams rumored to sign Howard this summer, one of the biggest threat to end D12’s career in Houston are the Atlanta Hawks. According to Soaring Down South staff writer Brad Washington, the Hawks may be the perfect fit for their hometown hero.
"Why The Houston Rockets has been a controversial athlete since his ridiculous standoff with the Orlando Magic and his ultimate fall from grace after his one year with the Los Angeles Lakers. Since then, Howard has been seen as a mentally “weak” basketball player who perhaps is past his prime. the Atlanta Hawks should definitely look into Howard’s psyche. Dwight Howard some of you reading this may ask? Because stranger things have happened in this world. The Hawks would be foolish not to check out if Howard has anything left in the tank."
Only time will reveal what will happen to Howard this summer, but it’s going to be fun to watch, to say the least.
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