Supply and demand.
Most things in life are dictated by those three words. The smaller the supply the higher demand. Sneaker companies, specifically NIKE has realized this and while it is very easy for them to make MILLIONS of sneakers to fit the demand they make sure the supply is low so the demand is always high.
When it comes to NBA Free Agency, the same rules apply.
Dwight Howard if he isn’t on the downside of his career has definitely maxed out his potential. The best you can hope for at this point is that he maintains his current status. Which is still very good, but he is Ricky Bell of New Edition. Everyone can’t be Ralph, Bobby or hell even Johnny Gill, sometimes you just are Rickey Bell.
The Rockets are having a hard time finding a trade partner for Dwight for several reasons.
1- He wants to go to a contender.
2- Most contenders don’t want him.
3- No one wants to give up assets for someone who can leave as a free agent.
With the salary cap about to skyrocket and Dwight opting out of his contact, he is line according to ESPN an annual salary starting at $30 million.
That is a lot of money for Ricky Bell, a lot of money for player who is very good, but not a franchise player and at best will always be the 2nd or 3rd option on your team.
Someone is going to pay it though because of simple supply and demand. Even on Dwight’s worst day, he is better than 95% of the Centers in the NBA. So, while paying him max money seems insane, a team desperate for a marquee player will likely do it.
It probably won’t be Houston, but regardless if you think he should get it, Dwight will be signing another max deal with someone this summer.