The New York Knicks, in their quest to bolster their frontcourt depth, should seriously consider signing Dwight Howard before the 2024-25 NBA season. Despite playing in Taiwan during the 2023-24 season, Howard has maintained excellent physical condition and could bring valuable experience and energy to a Knicks team aiming for its first championship since the 1970s.
Knicks Should Sign Future Hall-of-Famer With Last Roster Spot
Championship Pedigree
Howard’s championship pedigree is well-established. As a key role player on the 2020 Los Angeles Lakers, Howard contributed crucial minutes in their title run. He has also led a team to the NBA Finals as the franchise player, guiding the 2009 Orlando Magic through a grueling Eastern Conference playoff gauntlet that included the defending champion Boston Celtics and LeBron James’ Cleveland Cavaliers. This experience is invaluable for a Knicks team whose current roster lacks significant NBA championship experience, aside from OG Anunoby and Donte DiVincenzo, who have one title each. The Knicks are counting on their Villanova core’s NCAA Championship-winning experience though.
Adding Dwight Howard to the Knicks’ roster would not only bring championship experience but also provide a seasoned veteran who understands the nuances of playoff basketball. At 38, and turning 39 during the 2024-25 campaign, Howard could offer the Knicks quality minutes off the bench. He would be an ideal fit in Tom Thibodeau’s defensive scheme, providing high-energy play, particularly in pick-and-roll situations on both ends of the floor.
The Icing on the Cake
The Knicks’ current center rotation is strong, with Mitchell Robinson offering elite rim protection and rebounding, and Precious Achiuwa bringing versatility. Jericho Sims adds size, athleticism, and youth to the mix. However, Howard’s addition could provide a different look, especially in specific postseason matchups where his experience and physicality could be pivotal. His ability to stay ready and execute in limited minutes, as he demonstrated in his last NBA season with the Lakers, would complement the Knicks’ existing rotation.
Financially, the Knicks are in a position to make this move. With 14 guaranteed contracts and a cap figure of $184.9 million, they remain under the second apron by about $7 million. This gives the Knicks the flexibility to sign Dwight Howard to a veteran’s minimum contract without compromising their financial structure. This low-risk, high-reward signing could be the piece that pushes the Knicks closer to their championship aspirations.
Howard’s time in Taiwan during the 2023-24 season has kept him in playing shape, even if the league lacks the prestige of the NBA. His commitment to staying fit and game-ready indicates that he still has the drive to contribute at a high level. Bringing Dwight Howard back to the NBA could be a masterstroke for a Jalen Brunson-led Knicks team looking to capitalize on its recent roster improvements, including the trade for Mikal Bridges and the re-signing of Achiuwa.
The Last Word
In conclusion, Dwight Howard represents a unique opportunity for the New York Knicks. His championship experience, combined with his ability to perform in limited minutes, makes him an ideal candidate to strengthen the Knicks’ frontcourt. With the Knicks aiming to end a championship drought that dates back to the days of Walt Frazier, adding a proven winner like Howard could be the final piece of the puzzle.
