Johnson: Howard 'can bother' Jokic, will land him back in NBA

Dwight Howard. Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Eddie Johnson: Dwight Howard 'can bother' Nikola Jokic, will land him back in the NBA

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 9/17/23

Dwight Howard is scheduled to have a workout with the Golden State Warriors. The nine-time All-Star spent last season in Taiwan. However, it appears that Howard is looking to return to the NBA for the upcoming season.

Howard can provide high-level rim protection, interior defense, and rebounding at this late stage of his career. 17-year NBA veteran Eddie Johnson believes that Howard's ability to defend Nikola Jokic will be the primary reason an NBA team snaps him up this summer. Johnson shared his thoughts during a recent appearance on NBA radio.

"I've had conversations with Dwight Howard when he was over in Taiwan," Johnson said. "And I kept telling him, I was like, man, I just don't understand why you're not in the league ... But I told him, I said, man, you're going to be back in the league. I said, for one reason: Nobody can deal with Jokic, but you can. You've proven that you can bother Jokic. And I said, for that reason, somebody's going to give you a chance."

“For that reason, somebody’s going to give you a chance”

Eddie Johnson reacts to the report that Dwight Howard will meet with Golden State next week.@JumpShot8 | @BGeltzNBA | #DubNation pic.twitter.com/2t8i0n8zF7
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) September 17, 2023

Howard, 37, has been an elite defender for his entire career. As the NBA moved toward a switch-based defensive structure, Howard's impact began to wane. However, the veteran is still a valuable shot blocker and shot deterrent. He may not be the elite athlete he was in his prime, but Howard brings physicality and valuable experience.

The Warriors need more depth in the middle of the court. Howard can provide valuable minutes off the bench. The fact Howard also has a good track record against Jokic won't be lost on Mike Dunleavy and Steve Kerr.

Unlike most teams in the NBA, the Warriors are embracing their aging roster. Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green are all in or are entering their mid-thirties. Adding a 38-year-old Chris Paul further raised their team's average age.

Golden State is looking to win with experienced veterans and a sprinkling of youth. Howard would slot right into their rotation with no concerns about his age or lessened athletic ability.

The Warriors need a big man. Howard needs a new team. It's not the perfect fit. But it's a fit that makes sense for both sides. Howard could win the second championship of his career with the Warriors. But first, his workout needs to go well.

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