Dwight Howard, a seasoned center, was unable to sign a contract with the Golden State Warriors for the 2023–24 NBA season. This week, the Warriors worked out the three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year but decided against signing him.
The Warriors were happy with Howard during his two-day visit, but they elected to preserve roster flexibility going into training camp, according to NBA Insider Shams Charania.
Howard’s final NBA season was in 2021–2022, when he appeared in 60 games for the Los Angeles Lakers and averaged 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds. The 37-year-old later played with the Taoyuan Leopards for a season in Taiwan, where he was named MVP and Defensive Player of the Year.
Although there is still a potential that the eight-time All-Star would sign with the Warriors in the future, Howard is allegedly planning to investigate his options with other teams.
Kevon Looney will start at center for the Golden State Warriors while Draymond Green will be the center in small-ball combinations going forward. As depth players at the position, the Warriors also have rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis and versatile player Usman Garuba. The assumption is that the front office will try to improve at the wing position as they are confident in their frontcourt.
