Jeremy Lin and Dwight Howard (Photo : Scott Halleran/Getty Images)
Jeremy Lin and Dwight Howard join the long line of NBA free agents available this summer and there is a possibility that both players could end up being teammates once again in Charlotte. Both played together for the Houston Rockets in the 2013-14 NBA season.
Lin exercised his player option earlier this month, a move that didn't come as a surprise, CBS Sports reported. After turning out an impressive performance last season, Lin is hoping to snag a better paycheck this summer.
Following forgettable stints with the Houston Rockets and the Los Angeles Lakers, Lin was Hornets coach Steve Clifford's sixth man of the bench. Despite the demotion, Lin flourished and starred at times for the Hornets who went as far as the NBA playoffs.
Dwight Howard's Misfortunes
For Dwight Howard, it is no secret that the Hornets were interested in the 6-foot-11 center as early as February. That was the time that the Houston Rockets were dangling Howard but no deal materialized.
Howard also opted out of his deal with the Rockets, declining the $23.2 million option, reported Real GM.
Compared to Lin who has picked up his game, Howard's performance has been nowhere near stellar. Plagued by injuries and his struggles co-existing with guard James Harden, Howard is nowhere near the all-star caliber player that made him famous.
Despite his misfortunes, Howard is looking to sign a max contract deal which may not be easy to come by. Considering the performance he has been showing the past years, teams are expected to be cautious of signing up the defensive anchor.
Reunited Mutt-and-Jeff Tandem
Jeremy Lin is expected to be dangled multiple offers thanks to his 2015-16 performance. He has been linked to several teams though nothing has come to fruition.
All that aside, Lin did mention in a previous post here earlier this month that he was happy with his tenure in Charlotte. But come free agency, it may all boil down to the most reasonable deal on the table.
For Dwight Howard, the 30-year-old will be seriously weighing his options, Charlotte included. The latest word around is that Howard is interested in joining the New York Knicks, ironically Lin's former team in a separate report by Real GM.
With Derrick Rose now on board following a multiplayer trade as reported by the Chicago Tribune, the possible addition of Howard could instantly catapult the Knicks into contenders.
