[Orlando, FL] Is there actually a chance Dwight Howard might stay in Orlando and re-sign with the Magic? HoopsWorld analyzed the big fella’s comments and handling of the media during the All-Stars Weekend and surmised that yes, there is a chance.
There is also a big possibility that he could be traded before the March 15 deadline, which is fast approaching. But let’s stick to the script, shall we?
According to HoopsWorld, sources say that Howard will not make a decision until July. They also point out that Howard has not made any promises to any teams out there, especially not the soon-to-be Brooklyn Nets (that rumor made the rounds).
That leaves the Magic in limbo to some extent, but they will take what they can get until Dwight makes up his mind.
Also discussed was that the Los Angeles Lakers‘ interest in D12 – while very real – doesn’t coincide with the reality of a trade scenario that actually works for either team.
Jonathan Tjarks of RealGM.com states that, “a package built around Andrew Bynum is still the only deal that makes sense for the Orlando Magic.” The Magic don’t seem to think so, or at least they are keeping their cards close to their chest as CEO Alex Martins said any rumor of a trade deal involving Dwight is downright false.
Add that to the fact that The New York Post published a Peter Vecsey column that started off with: “I can tell you for a fact the Lakers offered Andrew Bynum and the Magic do not want him,” said a Western Conference executive.”
One big trade that may happen: the Orlando Magic may trade for some better support personnel to make Howard feel like he’s got a shot at a title in O-Town. The latest and most persistent storyline is one featuring veteran Phoenix Suns PG Steve Nash coming to Orlando in a March 15 trade.
RealGM.com says that according to “multiple sources,” Orlando Magic GM Otis Smith will “aggressively” pursue Nash. But that deal is steeped in ugly as it would most likely involve giving up J.J. Redick or Ryan Anderson and both are playing amazing ball this season.
By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate
Image: Copyright 2012 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)
Dwight Howard
