Report: Dwight Howard Would Have Interest In Clippers, Miami Heat If He Becomes A Free-Agent

Dwight Howard has interest in with potentially signing with the Los Angeles Clippers or the Miami Heat if he were to become a free-agent, repots Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated.

Two teams sources say tell SI Howard will have interest in: Clippers and Miami. There are cap issues, but the interest is real.

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Chris Mannix (@ChrisMannixSI) March 12, 2012

Mannix reports that rival executives believe the Magic will hold onto Howard until after the trade deadline in an attempt to keep the star center. Previously rumored trades, such as a swap for Carlos Boozer and Luol Deng, are not likely because the three-time Defensive Player of the Year would rather file for free-agency than sign long term with most teams.

If Howard does become a free-agent, he will be interested in speaking to more clubs than just the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, and New Jersey Nets, Mannix reports. Howard had previously indicated that these were three teams he would sign an extension with if he were traded.

The 26-year-old is averaging 21.1 points, 15 rebounds, and 2.2 blocked shots per game for the 27-15 Magic.