Report: Howard expected to opt out of contract at end of season

Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard is expected to opt out of his $23.2-million player option this summer and become a free agent, according to Sam Amick of USA TODAY Sports.

Howard has not played a full NBA season since 2009-10, a year he finished second in MVP voting. Instead of opting into his contract and trying to capitalize on a strong 2016-17 season, Howard would prefer to land a long-term contract instead.

Despite the rumors, Howard isn't necessarily intent on leaving Houston. The 30-year-old already claimed earlier on Wednesday that he's not unhappy with the Rockets.

Howard mentioned that he enjoys playing with fellow All-Star James Harden.

"I came here and the biggest reason was because of him, because I want both of us to grow and be great basketball players and be great teammates together," he said.

Despite averaging just 12.6 points per game this season, the Rockets have been much better with Howard on the court, posting a net-rating of plus-0.1, compared to an off-court rating of minus-7.1.