Who is Mr. Franchise for each NBA team in the 21st century? The answer for the Orlando Magic is none other than Dwight Howard.
Dwight Howard’s impact and resonance with the Magic are unparalleled. He took the torch from Shaquille O’Neal as the best big man in the game and led the team to the Finals. Howard embodied the Superman persona, just like O’Neal did during his time with the Magic.
Despite his on-court success, Howard’s immature, goofball personality eventually wore out his welcome with the Magic and at every other stop in his career. However, there is no denying his status as the most recognizable Magic player of the last two decades.
It seems like every decade or so, a generational talent arrives in Orlando, and Howard certainly fits that description. His impact on the team and the city will not be forgotten anytime soon.
As the NBA continues to evolve and new stars emerge, it will be interesting to see who will carry the title of Mr. Franchise for the Orlando Magic in the future. But for now, Dwight Howard’s legacy looms large over the team and its fans.
