Dwight Howard opts in to play with Wizards next season

Dwight Howard will have another opportunity to show the Washington Wizards he still has something left in the tank.

Howard signed a two-year deal with the Wizards last off-season that included a player option for the 2019-2020 season. Howard has reportedly exercised that option and will be under contract with Washington next season.

Not a shocker obviously, but Dwight Howard has opted into his $5.6 million deal for next season (player option) with Washington, sources say.

— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) April 19, 2019

Howard’s first season with the team was marred by injuries. He missed all of the Wizards’ preseason games due to a muscle strain in his buttocks. He also had back surgery during the season and experienced hamstring issues while working his way back, which resulted in Washington shutting Howard down for the season.

Howard appeared in nine games this past season posting averages of 12.8 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. He will turn 34 years old during the 2019-2020 season.