Houston free agent Dwight Howard would consider signing with the Knicks in free agency, league sources told ESPN’s Ian Begley:
Another name to keep in mind is Dwight Howard. Sources say Howard would consider signing with the Knicks. It is unclear at this point if the Knicks are interested in Howard. Signing Howard to a max deal would eat up most of New York’s cap space. It is unclear what kind of offer Noah is looking for.
Earlier today, the Knicks and Bulls reached agreement on a mega-deal that sent Derrick Rose to New York. In the deal, Jose Calderon, Jerian Grant, and Robin Lopez were dealt to Chicago. The Bulls also sent promising young guard Justin Holiday and a 2017 second round draft pick, as well.
With the Knicks freeing up their center position, league-wide speculation has arisen on who exactly they are targeting. Names such as Dwight Howard, Joakim Noah, and Pau Gasol have surfaced thus far.
The Knicks, who now have a star-studded trio of Derrick Rose, Carmelo Anthony, and Kristaps Porzingis, are missing one other piece of the starting lineup puzzle besides the center position: Shooting guard. With news emerging Tuesday that Arron Afflalo decided to opt out, the Knicks must also focus their attention on filling this hole and must not forget about its significance. Afflalo, according to reports, is unlikely to return next season, leaving a gaping hole.
But before focusing on the two spot, the Knicks’ main focus in free agency will be finding a suitable player that pairs well with Kristaps Porzingis. The Porzingis-Lopez combo was lethal last season. If New York can find the right player, suddenly the landscape of the Eastern Conference changes.
Dwight Howard, who officially opted out of his contract with Houston this week, is not expected to return to the Rockets. Several teams — Including Portland, Miami, Orlando, Charlotte, New York, Dallas, Washington, Brooklyn, Boston, and Atlanta — Are expected to give Dwight a look. If the Knicks can manage to sign Joakim Noah for a limited price, perhaps they could shift their remaining money over to rounding out its bench and improving the shooting guard position.
The Knicks have many choices to make — As does Dwight Howard. Howard is said to be seeking a winning environment and has little interest in taking a pay cut this summer. Dwight’s camp is hopeful of a multi-year, maximum salary deal.
The lingering question now is, which teams will pique the interest of Dwight in free agency?
For the Knicks, hearing Dwight would at least consider New York is a step in the right direction. Of course, intentionally trading your starting center away is a good a sign for the Dwight-to-New York supporters, as well.
One thing remains certain; Dwight Howard will sign where Dwight Howard wants to sign. This is a decision that’s going to be made by him, and solely him. Dwight does what Dwight wants, and he’ll evaluate all available options before choosing his destination.
