Howard Decides on Rockets

Free agent center Dwight Howard has decided to join the Houston Rockets.

The seven-time All-Star posted a picture of himself on Twitter wearing a red Rockets jersey, ending a nearly 20-month saga regarding the future of the dominant big man.  Howard's deal with worth $88 million over four years, according to USA Today.

Had Howard decided to remain with Los Angeles, the Lakers could have offered him a five-year deal worth up to $118 million.  Howard informed the Lakers prior to his message on Friday that he would not return to the team.

Howard, the most coveted free agent of the 2013 off-season, was traded to the Lakers from the Orlando Magic following several trade requests last summer in a four-team deal.  His decision apparently came down to the Lakers or Rockets, but the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors and Atlanta Hawks were also involved in the recruiting process.

Howard underwent back surgery last April and spent much of the off-season rehabbing.  Howard is currently suffering from a torn labrum in his right shoulder, but that injury will not require surgery to repair.

The 27-year-old Howard averaged 17.1 points and a league-leading 12.4 rebounds per game.