Dwight Howard Thinks The Magic Should Retire Penny Hardaway's Number

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard believes the Magic should retire former Magic star Penny Hardaway’s number, the Orlando Sentinel reports.

“I think when the season starts – whenever that may be – he should have his jersey put up for what he did not just the team, but for the city,” Howard told reporters in a video conference. “We all know how great Penny has been for the game of basketball.”

The Magic traded Hardaway in 1999 after the team entered a rebuilding period due to new front office leadership. Since that time, Hardaway reportedly has had minimal contact with the organization.

Hardaway also offered his thoughts on re-establishing a relationship with the Magic:

“It’s always been on my mind,” Hardaway told reporters. “When you mention my name, it’s Orlando. They don’t talk about Phoenix; they don’t talk about New York. It’s Orlando. I’m in history here, so I would love to be more involved.”