The Houston Rockets will take their chance on Dwight Howard until this season ends, making it clear that they have no plans of trading the 6-foot-11-inch big man by the National Basketball Association (NBA) trade deadline, which is on Feb. 18.
Word about the Rockets possibly dealing Howard came out recently in a possible deal with the Boston Celtics.
Even though Howard has struggled mainly due to injuries, he also made it known through a report by ESPN that he would prefer to stay with the Rockets before weighing his options by season's end.
Howard hasn't exactly recalled the same form he had during his explosive days with the Orlando Magic. He failed to continue his rise with the Lakers and has hardly improved on that since joining the Houston Rockets.
The trade rumors have been tied up with the alleged grand plan of the Rockets to try and lure Kevin Durant. The contract of Howard, which shows that he will earn $22.4 million this season and $23.3 million next year if he opts in, is seen as something that could be a problem. Although the All-Star center is likely to opt out by the end of the season, the figures are still massive for a trade to be consummated.
The Rockets believe that they are on the same vote as other teams when it comes to Durant. One advantage they are hoping to thrive on is the relationship between James Harden and Durant. Both are former teammates with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Aside from the Celtics, no team has been officially linked with the Rockets as far as trade talks are concerned. And with this latest announcement, other teams may opt to look elsewhere as far as pulling off trades are concerned.
For his part, Howard hasn't really indicated he wanted out of Houston. While he is aware of the trade rumors, he does reiterate that he is focused on the season and not on jumping ship.
