Atlanta Hawks: Dwight Howard’s Top 5 Games Of 2016-17

The Atlanta Hawks bought hometown kid Dwight Howard in for rebounding, inside scoring, and paint protection. So far, he’s done a pretty good job of doing those specific things. But every once in awhile, Howard will give the Hawks more than what they ask of him. Here’s a look at Dwight Howard‘s best performances so far this season.

1.) On October 27th, Dwight Howard made his debut as an Atlanta Hawk. This was a big night for Howard. He scored 11 points, grabbed 19 rebounds, and recorded three blocks. Seven out of 19 of his rebounds were offensive. The most surprising stat was Howard making three out of four of his free throws. Howard finished the game with a plus/minus rating of plus five. It’s always good when the new guy can come in and have a good game to open the season.

2.) On November 5th, Howard played the Houston Rockets for the first time in Atlanta. This was one of the Hawks most anticipated games due to the circumstances. Dwight Howard left the Houston Rockets in the offseason to play for Atlanta. Rumor was, James Harden and Dwight Howard didn’t mesh well on the court and off the court. Despite all the drama, Howard put on a show for Phillips Arena scoring 20 points and grabbing 15 boards. He also had two blocks and a steal. He was essential in Atlanta winning the game 112-97. Howard finished the game with a plus/minus rating of plus 13 .

3.) On December 16th, Dwight Howard helped avenge the Hawks loss to Toronto earlier in the season. He put up 27 points and 15 rebounds. Howard also made 70 percent of his free-throws and shot 76.9 percent from the field to give Atlanta a 125-121 win. It was important for the Hawks to get this win in Toronto. They struggled a bit against the Raptors last season. Howard finished the game with a plus/minus rating of plus 15.

4.) On November 23rd, the Hawks visited old teammate Jeff Teague in Indiana. Dwight Howard had a superb game. He scored 23 points and snatched 20 rebounds. This was his best game as a Hawk at the time. He shot 83.3 percent from the field, as well. Teague was probably shocked to see the Hawks haven’t made a step backwards since losing him and Al Horford.

5.) On February 2nd, Dwight Howard returned to Houston and put on a stellar performance. Howard had 24 points and 23 rebounds. He had two blocks, three assists, and a steal to go along with his monstrous double-double. Tim Hardaway Jr. would come in the game later and take over.

Howard has had his best games against the Rockets. His plus/minus rating was plus 9. What made this game more special was the fact that it was a nationally televised game on TNT.

Next: Finding Room For Mike Scott

Late last season Howard was interviewed by the NBA on TNT crew about his career and people’s perception of him. It had to feel good to perform that good with the legends watching.