Dwight Howard has officially signed with the Washington Wizards.
The Wizards announced the move Thursday. Though terms were not disclosed, Howard will sign a two-year deal at the taxpayer mid-level exception, with a player option after the first year.
Last season, Howard averaged 16.6 points and 12.5 rebounds per game with the Charlotte Hornets.
The Hornets, however, traded him after the season to the Brooklyn Nets, who then negotiated a buyout with the 32-year-old center.
The Wizards will be Howard’s fourth team in four years, or fifth if you include his brief stint with the Nets.
“Dwight has been known throughout his career as one of the league’s best defenders, rebounders and finishers around the rim, all areas that we needed to improve heading into next season,” general manager Ernie Grunfeld said in a statement. “His inside presence and athleticism will give us a much different look and will open up opportunities for us on both ends of the floor.”
An eight-time All-Star and three-time defensive player of the year, Howard was once the league’s best center. But his game has declined as he’s gotten older and there are questions about his fit in the modern game.
The Wizards were still interested in Howard amid star John Wall’s cries for the team to add an athletic big man. Washington traded center Marcin Gortat to the Los Angeles Clippers last month.
Howard, viewed as a divisive figure in the locker room, also carries chemistry concerns, though he has always downplayed his reputation.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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