Back when it was legal to do so, Dwight Howard forewent his collegiate career in favor of pursuing his NBA career at a young age. In his rookie season, at age 19, it was apparent that he made the correct business decision.

The Orlando Magic won only 36 games in 2004, but their 6'11" center showed out with averages of 12 points, 10 boards and 1.7 blocks per game. Howard made 52% of his shots, which led to an offensive rating of 111, tied with Grant Hill for the second-best mark on the team.

Howard ended his rookie year with .131 win shares per 48 minutes, many of which came via the defensive end of the floor. There, Howard amassed 3.5 defensive win shares, which easily led the Magic.

It took one more year before Howard put the franchise on his back and led the Magic to five straight playoff appearances. Howard became one of the more dominant big men in the game for several years.