5 free agents the Atlanta Hawks should target

By Brad Weiss | Jun 28, 2016

ATLANTA, GA - MAY 08: Fans hold up a sign in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Semifinals between the Atlanta Hawks and the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2016 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena on May 8, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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OAKLAND, CA – APRIL 16: Dwight Howard #12 of the Houston Rockets slam dunks over Marreese Speights #5 of the Golden State Warriors in the second quarter in Game One of the Western Conference Quarterfinals during the 2016 NBA Playoffs at ORACLE Arena on April 16, 2016 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

3. Dwight Howard, C, Houston Rockets

It seems like every year Dwight Howard is looking to leave his current team for greener pastures. He is one of the more interesting characters in the NBA, and really has not found a home since leaving the Orlando Magic back following the 2011-12 season.

A former first overall selection, Howard may want to actually go home this time around, as the Atlanta native has never played for his hometown Hawks. He would immediately be a fan favorite, something he has not been since leaving Orlando, and may finally find some peace in his career.

The 30-year-old Howard comes with a big price tag, as he is going to be expecting a max contract. The only way this works is if Horford leaves, and Howard decides to come back to the Eastern Conference. He was once considered the best center in the game, and actually averaged a double-double last season in Houston.

The player who was once dubbed “Superman” has not been a really dominant force in the NBA for some time, and the opportunity to play with a solid Power Forward may be the best thing for him. Paul Millsap is a great player, and he and Howard would form a formidable frontcourt.

Howard played his high school basketball at Christian (GA) Academy in Southwest Atlanta, and it would be interesting to see if he pulls a LeBron James-type move and comes home.

Next: 2. Nicolas Batum

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