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Former NBA player Dwight Howard has joined a team in Taiwan, the Taoyuan Leopards. The 36-year-old is one of the best players in NBA history. He is expected to make an immediate impact. Some insiders are saying that former NBA players Isaiah Thomas and Enes Freedom could be next to sign with a Taiwanese team.
It's somewhat surprising that no NBA team was willing to take a chance on Howard. But it's exciting to see him back on the court.
Dwight had this to say about joining the Leopards:
"I am so so excited, and I can't wait to touch down in Taiwan and start playing," Howard said as part of a social media post by the team.
"I'm coming with open arms, with big hugs and big smiles."
Enes Freedom and Isaiah Thomas could play in Taiwan
Enes Freedom has been outspoken about his inability to sign with an NBA team. He believes he's not getting another opportunity because of his controversial beliefs. It's unlikely that we'll ever see him play in the NBA again. But that doesn't mean he's done with basketball.
Isaiah Thomas' career has been inspirational. The undersized guard was selected 60th overall in the 2011 Draft. He wasn't expected to be a productive NBA player. What he did with the Boston Celtics was nothing short of impressive. People have forgotten how good he was.
He has proven throughout his career that he can be an above-average player when given a chance. He made two All-Star appearances with the Celtics in 2016 and 2017. He averaged a career-high 28.9 points and 5.9 assists during the 2016-17 season.
Marc Stein reports that both Enes Freedom and Isaiah Thomas could make their way to Asia this year:
"Keep an eye on Taiwan as an emerging option for NBA players looking to continue (or revive) their careers in Asia. Dwight Howard stunningly signed earlier this month for a reported seven figures with the Taoyuan Leopards."
"other teams there will inevitably try to counter with their own marquee signings as an alternative for players who don’t want to play in China."
"Enes Freedom and Isaiah Thomas, I’m told, are targets for Taiwanese clubs. Ditto for 10-time All-Star Carmelo Anthony. … Although it’s widely presumed that Anthony, at 38, is holding out for another NBA opportunity."
It would be wise for Isaiah Thomas to continue his basketball career in Asia. He wants to prove to NBA teams that he is a valuable player. It's a risk that could pay off for the former All-Star.
