Washington Wizards: 3 reasons Dwight Howard is a good pickup

2. Rim protection

There’s a reason Dwight Howard has three DPOY trophies in his house, and it’s one of the reasons — even at his advanced age — he’s still one of the best interior defenders in the NBA.

Since entering the league back in 2004, Howard has always had the timing, instinct and discipline needed to be a defensive presence in the restricted area.

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His blocks per game have gone down some since his prime years, but 1.6 is certainly nothing to scoff at.

Even though his reputation has quickly deteriorated, not many perimeter players are looking to attack the basket with the physical specimen that is Dwight Howard waiting for them at the bucket.

This bodes well for a Wizards team that ranked 19th in points allowed in the paint, hampered by Gortat and his weighted sneakers. Howard’s presence at the bucket should decrease the 45.4 points per game they allowed with his ability to contest any and all shots near the rim.

His prowess will also allow the likes of Wall and Bradley Beal to get into their man on defense, a move made possible with Howard waiting should their opponent spring free to the bucket.