 Complete the following phrase:  Although it had been five years since his only All-Star appearance, Howard was the fourth-highest-paid player in the NBA during the 200001 season, behind Kevin Garnett, Shaquille ONeal and Mourning. Howard, along with Strickland and Richmond, were marquee names on the team under contract to earn at least 10 million. On December 31, 2000, Howard, posted his career high of 15 made free throws in a game against the . Despite the fact that the February 11, 