The Houston Rockets are aware of Dwight Howard's whimsical ways and are prepared to sign Hawks forward Josh Smith, if the former Lakers' big man chooses to sign with another of his many suitors.

Howard is the biggest star in 2013 free agent pool, and NBA teams are lining up to woo the all-star center. Houston reportedly met wit Howard yesterday, bringing along a team of current and former players to persuade the 27-year-old. The contingent included players James Harden, Chandler Parsons, coach Kevin McHale, general manager Daryl Morey and Rockets Hall of Famers Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. Yao Ming even talked with Howard via Skype from China. Still, Houston is prepared to lure the second-biggest name in free agency, Josh Smith, if they aren't able to sign Howard.

Howard is notoriously indecisive, as he displayed during his final season with the Orlando magic. The three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year frequently changed his stance on resigning with the team, but ultimately left for the bright lights of Los Angeles and signed with the Lakers before the start of the 2012-2013 season.

If Houston has to settle for Josh Smith, they'll be getting a less explosive version of their first choice. Like Howard, Smith is an elite defender and rebounder, who can guard the paint and finish at the rim with elite athleticism. In nine seasons with the Hawks, Smith averaged eight rebounds and 2 blocked shots, along with 15 points and three assists per game.

In other free agency news, the New York Knicks reportedly signed Toronto Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani in a trade that sent the Knicks' Marcus Camby and Steve Novak as well as a first-round pick in the 2016 draft to Toronto, according to Daily News. New York is also reportedly interested in Milwaukee Bucks shooting guard Monta Ellis and former Rockets' guard Aaron Brooks.

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