The Atlanta Hawks became the second team in two years to get tired of Dwight Howard. Here’s why we really shouldn’t be surprised
For one reason or another, news of the Dwight Howard trade came with a modicum of surprise to just about everyone.
For many, it was over the fact that the Hawks managed to find a taker for the two years and over $50 million remaining on Howard’s deal.
Others were surprised by the Hawks’ about-face less than a year after choosing Howard over one of the five greatest players in franchise history.
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For most of us though, the real surprise came over the fact that this trade really wasn’t that surprising at all.
There were some corners of the internet that expressed mild shock that the Hawks didn’t receive more in return. In truth, this was probably the gut reaction of even the most plugged in basketball junkie. Then, we quickly remembered what the NBA has become, and how Howard has not aged gracefully in that framework.
At one point in his career, Dwight could have thrived playing the version of the game we just saw in the Finals. That was before he demanded his post touches every game. It was when he was still spry enough – and willing – to hound guards on the perimeter. It was in the midst of his winning three straight DPOY awards and garnering five straight All-NBA 1st Team selections.
A Different Player
That Dwight Howard hasn’t been around for some time. Next season will mark four years since Howard made an All-Star or All-NBA team. He will turn 32 in December, during his 14th NBA season. He is in the top 100 on the all time minutes played list, one spot ahead of Magic Johnson.
There will be talk of a resurgence under Steve Clifford. Buy in at your own peril.
Most damning is the fact that this makes two teams in two years that have looked at Dwight Howard and said “thanks, but we’re good here.” It is an unkind end to the career of a player whose resume virtually guarantees him induction into Springfield.
Sadly, many of us will remember Dwight for what he wasn’t rather than what he was. He will go down in history as the poor-man’s Shaquille O’Neal in every way – an unbelievable physical specimen who could have gotten more out of his talent but didn’t, perhaps due to the fact that he was mostly here to have a good time.
O’Neal, of course, won both an MVP and four rings. Howard was the runner up for both. His is a career made up of equal parts “when he puts it all together…” and “remember when he could…”.
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Unfortunately for him, and for all of us, the sweet spot when Howard was exactly what we all hoped he would become ended far too quickly. That, sadly, will be Dwight’s legacy.
Well, that and getting traded for a Plumlee brother.