Dwight Howard spent last season playing in China, but the 37-year-old center still wants to return to the NBA.
We last saw Howard in the Association as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers in 2021-22, but the eight-time All-Star apparently has his sights set on joining a different organization in California.
Howard told longtime NBA writer Mark Haynes he would “love to help” the Sacramento Kings make a run at an NBA title next season.
Exclusive @SacObserver interview with Dwight Howard on possibly returning to the NBA next season:
“I’m not retired from the NBA just yet, and I would love to help the Sacramento Kings contend for a title.”https://t.co/rgycH2UIIk
— Mark Haynes (@markhaynesnba) June 6, 2023
Howard openly expressing his desire to play for the Kings has sparked reaction from Sacramento fans and others.
“Dwight Howard on a vet minimum contract is a low risk/medium reward move. Could easily see him meshing with our culture. Love it,” one Kings fan said.
Dwight Howard on a vet minimum contract is a low risk/medium reward move. Could easily see him meshing with our culture. Love it. https://t.co/ZpcUuWPl7v
— AL in CAL (@ALinCALI22) June 6, 2023
“I’d pick up Dwight in a heartbeat if I were the Kings,” said ESPN 1320 radio host Kenny Caraway.
I’d pick up Dwight in a heartbeat if I were the Kings. https://t.co/pV8ACROu90
— Kenny Caraway 🏁 (@IamKDiddy) June 6, 2023
“Best way for Dwight to help the Kings contend for a title is by signing with the Clippers,” said Celtics podcast host John Karalis.
Best way for Dwight to help the Kings contend for a title is by signing with the Clippers https://t.co/79hKxiQBbz
— John Karalis 🇬🇷🇦🇲 🇺🇦 (@John_Karalis) June 6, 2023
“He would honestly be a nice backup to Sabonis. Can play a solid 10-15 minutes a game, be that big dude who can help with rim protection,” another person said. “I can see him fitting into the culture they have [right now]. Is this likely? Maybe not but doesn’t hurt to think about lol.”
He would honestly be a nice backup to Sabonis. Can play a solid 10-15 minutes a game, be that big dude who can help with rim protection. I can see him fitting into the culture they have rn. Is this likely? Maybe not but doesn’t hurt to think about lol https://t.co/s2ZtaNjYBr
— Tama Les Domingo🌞 (@latinxpothead) June 6, 2023
“I’m good, no thanks. Dwight in his prime then yes,” another Kings fan chimed in.
I’m good, no thanks. Dwight in his prime then yes. https://t.co/fvhB7S9aZU
— Talkin’ Kings (@TalkinKings) June 6, 2023
Howard, who won a title with the Lakers in 2020, averaged 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds per game in 60 appearances with LA during the 2021-22 campaign.
The Kings, meanwhile, are coming off the franchise’s first playoff appearance in 17 years. Sacramento went 48-34 in the regular season before a hard-fought first-round loss to the Golden State Warriors in seven games.