Wizards Resign Josh Howard

The Washington Wizards have signed Josh Howard to a 1-year, nearly $4 million contract. From my understanding, there are incentives in the contract that could net Howard more money if he plays a certain number of games and minutes.

The Breakdown
After playing only 4 games with Washington before succumbing to injury, Howard will return next season at a bargain price. Howard will be the Wizards' starting SF. Josh was unable to secure a richer, long term contract because of his recent injury troubles. He's missed a total of 77 games over the last 2 years. Teams were also scared by his controversial actions off the court.

I currently have Howard ranked at #98, but he could end up being one of the steals of the draft if he can stay healthy. With a contract that gives him incentives to play more games and more minutes, you know Howard is going to do his best to stay on the court this year. In addition, this is just a one year deal, which gives Howard further incentive to return to his All-Star form so he can secure a long term contract next summer.

Howard should have no problem scoring with the Wizards even with the return of Gilbert Arenas, the addition of John Wall, and last season's emergence of Andray Blatche. Howard was able to average 18 points in his last healthy season in Dallas where he shared the court with Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Kidd, and Jason Terry. I would expect Howard to at least average 14 points and contribute a little in rebounds, steals, and blocks. Being able to play alongside 2 playmakers like Arenas and Wall should only boost Howard's production.

Josh Howard is a player I really like if you can scoop him up in the mid-90s or later. He's in the perfect situation where he can get back to his old self and play much better than his average draft position.