Orlando extends Howard’s contract

"Dwight has already become one of the most intimidating forces in the league down low, and at 21 years old, he is only going to get better," said general manager Otis Smith at a Thursday press conference. "We continue to make this organization one in which fans can be proud of, both on and off the court, and Dwight is obviously a big part of that. We look forward to watching Dwight’s development in a Magic uniform for many years to come."

Howard averaged 17.6 points and 12.3 rebounds per game last season. He has grabbed more rebounds than any player in the NBA over the last two seasons.

Howard, the top overall draft selection in the 2004 draft, has averaged 15.1 points and 11.6 boards per game in three seasons.

The 6-foot-11, 265-pounder has 152 career double-doubles, and is the youngest player in NBA history to record 20-plus rebounds in a single game (Dec. 1, 2004 vs. Toronto). He was named the NBA’s Eastern Conference Player of the Month twice in 2006.