Atlanta Hawks: Dwight Howard Will Feast In 2016-17

2. Coming Home

For the first time in a long time, Dwight Howard is going to be comfortable with the situation he’s playing in. Not only is Atlanta a team that can support his strengths and address his weaknesses, but it’s also his hometown.

If nothing else whatsoever, then one should feel optimistic about the mental relief that Howard will experience in his hometown.

After years of adversity, Howard will finally play for a team and city that wants him to be there. He’ll be welcomed back as the hometown kid, will play for a coach who hand-picked him in free agency, and will feel no pressure beyond the basics of needing to win.

With his back against the wall, Howard decided to go to the only place where he knew his career could be resurrected: home.

With his mind at ease and his presence appreciated, Howard should be able to play like himself again. The Hawks aren’t just investing in his name or complementary skills; they want him to be a star again.

To take it a step further, Atlanta needs Howard to be a star again—and that’s reason enough to be confident.

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