Are The Golden State Warriors Making A Huge Mistake?
Dwight Howard has been in the news lately because the NBA free agent worked out for the Golden State Warriors (according to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium).
However, Charania has now given the update that the Warriors will not be signing Howard (or another center) at this time.
Via Charania: "The Warriors are not expected to sign Dwight Howard or another veteran center ahead of training camp, sources tell me. Howard had a two-day visit with the Warriors this week that included meetings and workouts. But the Warriors are expected now to maintain flexibility to sign a potential big man later in camp or into the regular season. So expect Howard to discuss a potential return to the league with any other interested team in the coming week or so."
Are the Golden State Warriors Making A Mistake?
The Warriors are one of the best dynasties in the history of the NBA, so they have been known to make many wise decisions.
Despite losing to the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round of the 2023 NBA playoffs, the Warriors have been to the NBA Finals five times in the previous nine seasons (and won four titles).
That said, they are approaching the final stages of their historic run, as their star players Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green are much older now.
In addition, the team lacks size, as only one player on the roster is taller than 6'9" (Dario Saric, who is 6'10").
Adding a player like Howard would significantly boost their defense and rebounding off the bench.
At one point, the eight-time NBA All-Star was the best center in the league, but he has also transitioned into a solid role player over the last few seasons.
He most recently played in the league in 2022 with the Lakers and averaged 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds per contest, and in 2020, he helped the franchise win the NBA Championship over the Miami Heat.
Therefore, he has proven to be a reliable player in a reserve role, playing behind big stars.
The Warriors are only playing for titles, and a player like Howard could impact the outcome of an NBA playoff series (depending on the matchup).
Typically, the franchise is multiple steps ahead of other teams regarding additions and subtractions, so they deserve the benefit of the doubt.
However, not adding Howard could be a massive mistake if they do not find the right backup center.
