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Howard has powered past Okafor

Sporting News, The, Dec 23, 2005 by Stan McNeal

When the Bobcats made Emeka Okafor the second pick in the 2004 draft, the consensus was that it was a solid choice. When the Magic made Dwight Howard the first pick, the thinking was that it was a great choice.

So far, so true, even though both exceeded expectations last season. Okafor, who contributed more on offense than expected, led the Bobcats in scoring and rebounding, produced the fourth-most double doubles (47) in the league and was the Rookie of the Year. Howard started from the get-go and, like Okafor, averaged a double double.

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Now, Howard clearly has emerged as the better player. Though Okafor is on pace for 50 of so double doubles, his shooting has regressed because defenses have paid more attention to him. Howard has increased his scoring and rebounding even though he has attracted more double-teams than he did as a rookie. In their first head-to-head matchup this season, Howard blew Okafor away, going for 21 points and 20 rebounds in a Magic victory while Okafor finished with eight points, six rebounds and five fouls.

"Howard is a little more refined offensively, with better back-to-the-basket footwork," an Eastern Conference advance scout says. "Okafor has to fight for everything he gets, and he does battle on every possession. He's not going to have any trouble getting his double doubles, but a 20 and 10 night for him is a hell of a night. More is going to be expected of Howard."

And it hasn't taken long for Howard to start delivering.

Howard has powered past Okafor

Sporting News, The, Dec 23, 2005 by Stan McNeal

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