"I tell you, each and every guy in this locker room ... they now have a chance to really become a true, seasoned vet," Howard said. "With all the stuff we have dealt with so far this year -- and the season isn't even over yet, it's just the halfway point -- this is NBA 101. This shows a true testament to this organization in drafting and signing character guys who know how to play the game the right way. Because it could be easy for this group to toss in the towel. But it's been the total opposite with this group."