The San Antonio Spurs reportedly signed former All-Star swingman Josh Howard to a non-guaranteed deal, a reliable league insider reported on Friday.

Howard, who last played with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2012-13 season, could force his way back to the NBA after he was given a chance by the Spurs to prove his worth.

Although the contract is a non-guaranteed deal, the Spurs are still looking for a solid player capable of backing up starter Kawhi Leonard.

The 33-year old Howard averaged 6.7 points and 3.3 rebounds in 18 minutes per game with Minnesota last season. He averaged 14.3 points and 5.7 rebounds over his career and was selected to the 2007 All-Star Game.

Meanwhile, British big man Joel Freeland has now earned the role as the backup center for Robin Lopez, beating second-year center Meyers Leonard for the position.

The role that he has, he's earned a lot of respect from his teammates and the coaches by how he's impacted the game defensively," Terri Stotts told Mike Tokito of the Oregonian. "He had two rim protections tonight, made an impact on the game. We need defense out of that position, and Joel's earned that."