Heat ink veteran forward Juwan Howard to 10-day deal

Miami, FL, United States (4E Sports) – The Miami Heat have signed veteran power forward Juwan Howard to a 10-day contract, giving the team a veteran presence and leadership in its title defense.

The 40-year-old Howard, who was with the Heat when they won their second crown last season against the Oklahoma City Thunder, will enter his 19th season in the league.

Howard is expected to suit up when the Heat take on the New York Knicks Sunday.

In a statement, Heat president Pat Riley described Howard as a “key part of the championship culture in Miami”.

“He is essential to this team and can still play this game at a high level in some of our biggest games yet to come. He has a unique veteran savvy and will provide leadership and experience to our team,” Riley said.

In 1,201 career games, Howard has averaged 13.4 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists. He played for the Washington Wizards, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets, Charlotte Bobcats and the Portland Trail Blazers.

Howard’s best year came while he was still playing with Washington, then known as the Bullets. He averaged 22.1 points and 8.1 rebounds in 81 games.

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