NBA: 5 most underrated signings of the 2018 offseason

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CHARLOTTE, NC – OCTOBER 29: Dwight Howard #12 of the Charlotte Hornets shoots a free throw against the Orlando Magic during their game at Spectrum Center on October 29, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Breaking down the five most underrated signings of the offseason as the 2018-19 NBA season begins

Every once in a while, there are moves that shake the structure of the entire NBA. LeBron James joining the Miami Heat in 2010, Kevin Durant joining the Golden State Warriors in 2016, just to name a few of the most recent moves that changed the balance of power in the NBA.

However, every summer, there are signings that tweak whats working, or to improve on previous successes or shortcomings that don’t get the credit they deserve. Here are my top five underrated signings from this offseason.

Dwight Howard

Signed with Wizards – two-years, $10.9 million

Once upon a time, Dwight Howard was the most dominant center in the NBA, whose defensive prowess, thunderous slam dunks and lovable personality took over the league during his time with the Orlando Magic. Since then, Howard has been viewed around the Association as a locker room cancer, and it seems that he still thinks he can be the best player for an NBA franchise. That just isn’t the case.

Since Howard’s dominant period, the league has shifted from back-to-the-basket centers, as teams are looking to shoot more three pointers, and small ball lineups are becoming the norm. Howard doesn’t really fit the mold. That said, Howard is still a solid and usable player, and Washington is the perfect fit.

John Wall is the perfect pick and roll partner for Howard, as the threat of Wall attacking the basket will give Howard a lot of open shots at the rim when he rolls. Wall is a complete point guard, and Howard hasn’t really had that before, aside from Steve Nash, who was well past his prime. Typically, when you run a pick and roll set with Howard, you’re probably looking to hit him for a thunder-dunk, but in Washington, Wall’s craftiness and smooth ability to finish at the rim, defenses will be focused on him, rather than Howard.

But don’t get me wrong, that’s not all he’s good for. Howard can still go out and have a monster game. Remember his 30-30 game against the Nets last season?

Howard may not be the All-Star he used to be, but if he can keep his ego in check, he can be a huge piece in the Wizards success this season.

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