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Bostn Celtics: Howard intriguing but unrealistic FA target

By Joshua Bateman

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - APRIL 10: Dwight Howard #12 of the Charlotte Hornets is seen during the game against the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on April 10, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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 Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - APRIL 10: Dwight Howard #12 of the Charlotte Hornets is seen during the game against the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on April 10, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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 Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
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Dwight Howard might be an interesting option for the Boston Celtics, but there is too much working against a deal happening.

The Boston Celtics have already started making moves this offseason by acquiring Brad Wanamaker. With Robert Williams also expected to have an impact as a rookie, the Celtics are quickly running out of roster spots and minutes for those players.

The Celtics have decisions to make with both Marcus Smart and Aron Baynes, and then they will be left with very little from free agency. The Celtics are unlikely to have much space or money, but that will not stop them from trying to get anything they can on free agency.

First off, you have to rule out anyone that will cost anything significant, and then you have to think about whether or not anything left will be worth giving minutes too. Right now, one of the more intriguing options is Dwight Howard, but it still feels like a pipe dream from fans thinking of past glory.

It is true that the Celtics need traditional size, and putting Howard on a ready made team where he could have a particular role, under a coach who is known for getting something out of all of his talent, could bring out something special.

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Howard is still a great athlete in the NBA, and the Celtics do not have any option that has his combination of size and strength. The Celtics are still unsure about their front court defense, and Howard could come in and have an immediate impact.

This combination feels like something that could end up working well, but there are still obstacles that need to be considered, starting with what that means for rookie Williams. Everything they would want from Howard, they are hoping to get from Williams, and his added versatility is exactly what the Celtics want.

Keep in mind, Howard could end up hurting a defense that is looking to switch all the time, and they would only be able to use him when they know he can stay strictly in the paint, and bring down all the boards they need.

Howard is also nothing like what the Celtics have been looking for in their front court over recent years. Versatility and youth have been the main focuses, and Howard could end up clogging up and stunting the progress of a promising front court.

Right now, it is uncertain whether or not Howard would be a better option than Daniel Theis, Williams or Semi Ojeleye, who all possess the defensive versatility they are looking for. When you take into account the potential future ramifications, getting Howard feels much less likely and a potentially damaging move.

You’d have to figure that a franchise as stable as the Celtics could avoid some of the locker room issues created by Howard in the past, but it is yet another part of what Howard brings that the Celtics have avoided during this rebuild. Getting Howard would be uncharacteristic of this organization, and there is not enough potential upside to take a chance on him.

Next: Wanamaker impact on Smarts free agency

On top of everything, it would also have to be on a veteran minimum contract, and Howard could have an opportunity to get a bit more money with a more prominent role elsewhere. Boston is a great place for him to chase a championship, but there are too many factors working against him coming to Boston to get excited about him.

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