What It Means:

Not a good sign for the 33-year-old center as Howard has had his fair share of back issues int he past. Hopefully the pain injection helps alleviate the problem, otherwise, surgery could be on the table. Howard has not done much in training camp and could miss opening day, even without the need for surgery. Ian Mahinmi would assume the starting role if Howard could not play.

Our models project Howard for 12.7 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game.