#1 Howard is traded to another team
As previously mentioned, Howard's skill set has not aged well in the NBA. Bigs are now expected to offer a threat beyond the arc, while also possessing the ability to defend multiple positions and Howard has struggled to develop either of these skills.
However, the eight-time All-Star still remains as one of the NBA's best rebounders, and Howard also continues to be among the most efficient players around the hoop. In his nine games with the Wizards, Howard shot 63% from the field while contributing 12.8 points in 25.6 minutes per game.
While the Wizards' will hold off trading Beal and Wall this summer, some of the team's other high earners may be moved, and Howard could potentially be traded as part of a multi-player deal. Evidently, Howard's future would then be left in the hands of his new team, although there is no reason why he couldn't contribute from a contenders bench.