Houston Rockets Interest In Dwight Howard Growing

The Houston Rockets appear increasingly interested in landing Dwight Howard after the center’s shaky stint with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Though NBA free agency is still a month away, sources close to the Rockets have said the team’s bid to steal Howard away from L.A. is gaining momentum. Howard can opt out of his contract with the Lakers to become a free agent, a move many expect him to make.

Dwight Howard appears on board with a move to Houston. Sources told ESPN that Howard has conveyed his interest to Rockets swingman James Harden, who was teammates with Howard on USA Basketball. Harden has already said he will be involved in the team’s free agency process.

When asked if that meant talking to Dwight Howard, Harden smiled and said: “Maybe. Possibly.”

ESPN.com reported that the Rockets would trade the No. 5 overall pick in 2012, Thomas Robinson, to create the cap space needed to lad Howard.

But the Rockets would have some tough competition for Dwight Howard. The Dallas Mavericks have also expressed interested, and the team is reportedly trying to swing a deal that would give away the it’s No. 13 draft pick in order to clear up space for the former Lakers center. If the Mavericks can find a buyer for the first-round pick, it would free up about $1.65 million in cap space, according to Chad Ford at ESPN.The Mavericks are seeking another star to complement Dirk Nowitzki, and Dwight Howard is the biggest name out there this free agent season.

The Lakers, who can offer Howard a $120 million contract compared to other teams that can offer $90 million, remain committed to the Dwight Howard sweepstakes as well, sources say.

Dwight Howard has already stated a preference for a thorough free agency process, like the one LeBron James had back in 2010 before signing with the Miami Heat. James met with several teams to hear offers, a plan Howard will also put in place this summer.