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Dwight Howard seems to be frustrated in Orlando nowadays. The high flying center for the NBA's Orlando Magic has spent the last eight years of his young life doing everything within his power to push his team toward the vaunted Championship but that trophy seems farther away. His recent contract machinations with the team ownership extended his stay there through the 2012-203 season, but in the last few days of the regular season, his unhappiness appears more clear than ever.
His start with the Florida franchise has been nothing if not spectacular. Drafted No. 1 out of high school in 2004, Howard wanted all the accolades that a professional sports career offered. During his eight years with the Magic, he has rung up award after award. He is a six-time NBA All-Star. He has been named as the NBA Defensive Player of the Year thrice. He was awarded an Olympic gold medal for his play in the 2008 Games. In 2008, he dazzled those in attendance to grab the NBA Slam Dunk Championship before that year's All-Star games.
His last two seasons have been fraught with problems. At times, he has spoken of difficulty getting along with or agreeing with his present coach. Because the Magic have failed to get close to the playoff during this period, he has vocalized his dissension with the Magic ownership. He has accused upper management of not really trying to bring championship quality team members to help in his quests. He has even been the fodder of trade rumors that he actively promotes.
While Howard stews during the remainder of the 2012 season and what could be the 2013 season, his accomplishments in the league cannot be dismissed. Because he came right out of high school, he has set a number of records in these early years of his career. Howard has led the NBA in offensive and defensive rebounds per game in three of his eight years. Twice he has led the league in blocks for game. His youth has him situated as the youngest player in NBA history to reach career rebounds through seven thousand – so far. For five straight years, Howard lead the league in total rebounds – from 2—5 through 2010.
