The Golden State Warriors believe they have a legitimate shot to sign Dwight Howard in free agency and have aggressively tried to trade away big contract players such as Andrew Bogut, Richard Jefferson and Andris Biedrins, according to sources.

The Warriors were able to get Howard's attention while meeting the Los Angeles Lakers free agent this week.

Golden State is searching for teams with salary camp room to dump players.

Howard is expected to make his free agency decision by Friday.