Golden State Warriors Eye Free Agent Center Dwight Howard Ahead of 2023–24 Season

With the 2023–24 NBA season quickly approaching and training camp just around the corner, the Golden State Warriors are actively exploring potential free agent additions to bolster their roster. According to NBA insider Shams Charania, one of the options on the Warriors’ radar is eight-time NBA All-Star centre Dwight Howard.

At 37 years old, Dwight Howard remains a free agent, having spent the previous season playing in Taiwan after his stint with the Los Angeles Lakers. Howard has repeatedly expressed a strong desire to make an NBA comeback despite his age, and the Golden State Warriors may offer him that opportunity.

While Howard boasts a long and illustrious career, with 18 years of NBA experience across seven teams since being drafted in 2004, he still possesses the physical attributes and skills that could benefit the Warriors. On the other hand, the Warriors recently signed Usman Garuba, a recent first-round pick, to a two-way contract. Garuba is renowned for his defensive capabilities, although his offensive game is still a work in progress.

Golden State’s General Manager, Mike Dunleavy Jr., has expressed openness to adding another big man to the roster, making the signings of Garuba and the potential pursuit of Howard strategically sound. While neither player is expected to be a primary contributor, Howard’s extensive NBA experience and physical condition could make him a valuable asset. In the event of injuries affecting the frontcourt rotation, Howard could provide crucial minutes, set screens, catch lobs, and block shots.

Meanwhile, Garuba represents a developmental project for the Warriors. Being signed to a two-way contract allows the team to maintain flexibility with two additional roster spots, potentially including one for Dwight Howard.

As the Warriors prepare for the upcoming season, it is evident that they are still fine-tuning their roster, with a focus on strengthening their frontcourt depth and ensuring they have contingency plans in case of injuries.