Terry: Mavericks would be title contender with Howard

Dwight Howard may have his fair share of detractors at this point in his career, but don't count Jason Terry among them.

Terry - who played with the Mavericks from 2004-12 - believes Dallas could become an instant title contender should they land the Houston Rockets big man this summer.

"If he comes to Dallas they’ll be talking about Dallas in the likes of winning a championship," Terry told Dwain Price of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

While Howard was once the most dominant center in the NBA, he has faded considerably since leaving the Orlando Magic four years ago. Howard averaged 13.7 points and 11.8 rebounds per game in 2015-16 - good numbers, but still well below his career average.

Terry, who has played with Howard the past two seasons, believes the 30-year-old's regression has been overstated, and he could still be a difference maker with his defense.

"He still can be a dominant force, primarily on the defense end," Terry said. "He’s such a presence back there controlling the paint."

Howard is expected to opt out of his $23.2-million player option this summer, becoming a free agent. The Mavericks are reportedly interested in signing the big man, but not at the cost of a max contract.