Just a day after being traded from the Charlotte Hornets to the Nets, it appears center Dwight Howard has already decided his future doesn’t lie in Brooklyn.
According to ESPN’s Chris Haynes, the Nets and Howard have begun discussing a contract buyout due to his desire to play for a title contender.
Eight-time NBA All-Star Dwight Howard and the Brooklyn Nets have agreed to enter into buyout talks for his $23.8 million expiring contract.
“I want to be in a situation where I have an opportunity to help a team win,” Howard said during a phone interview. “That’s my only goal. All I need is a real chance and a clean slate where it’s not people talking about my past.”
Both sides agreed to work together on securing a buyout for Howard in order for the 6-foot-11 center to hit free-agency this summer, sources said.
Dwight Howard only has one year left on his deal before he is set to hit unrestricted free agency but it’s apparent that he knows his window to be a legitimate contributor is closing fast. The 32-year-old is still a valuable piece at the center position but knows age will begin to hinder him soon enough.
With Howard expected to hit the open market following an agreed upon buyout, the enigmatic veteran will still be one of the better bigs available in free agency. Though his locker room presence has been questioned time and time again, there’s no doubt he could be of use for a contending team.
Based on him playing for three different teams in the past three seasons, it’d be reasonable for Howard to temper expectations when it comes to his contract. That being said, he will certainly be on the radar for winning teams in need of some athleticism and rebounding on the interior.
