Dwight Howard is obviously unhappy with the direction that the Orlando Magic are going in right now. He’s making it clear that he needs change around him or a change of location.
In his first preseason game, against the defending Eastern Conference Champions no less, Howard put up a dud.
The reigning three-time Defensive Player of the Year looked like he was going through the motions on his way to a five point, six rebound, three block, three assist night.
He went two-of-nine from the field and made just one of his four free throws. That’s not a performance you would expect out of your franchise center, even in the preseason.
"I know in the grand scheme of things, preseason isn't a big deal," Magic forward Quentin Richardson said. "But I don't care if we're playing pickup. I don't want to lose by 40. That's just me."
Q-Rich has got a point. Howard should have been somewhat motivated to come out and put the team on his back, especially against a Heat team that has some of the worst centers in the league on their roster.
DH12 had scrubs like Joel Anthony, Mickell Gladness and Dexter Pittman guarding him for most of the night and should have been able to absolutely dominate them.
The fact that he didn’t, and really looked like he had no intention to, must be a concern to the Magic, who do not want to trade their best player but may have no other option if he keeps throwing up stinkers like this.
Howard requested a trade to the Nets, Mavericks or Lakers and is looking to surround himself with winners and owners that care about their team.
Perhaps last night’s performance was a message to GM Otis Smith, letting him know that they can expect this underwhelming play for the bulk of the season if they don’t decide to move the unhappy star.
Orlando plays Miami again on Wednesday night, and if Dwight strings together another uninspired game, the franchise must make an urgent move to salvage their season by trading him.
nashville predators St Louis Blues Calgary Flames Colorado Avalanche Edmonton Oilers Minnesota Wild
0 件のコメント:
コメントを投稿