NBA, Team News / Analysis, Player News / Analysis, Rumors, Kris Humphries, Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Clippers, Dwight Howard , Brooklyn Nets
The Hawks are surfacing as one of the favorites to land Howard, and Marc Stein of ESPN has suggested the Hawks moving Al Horford, Jeff Teague, and some picks for the big man. ESPN has also reported that the Magic are now in discussions with the Lakers and the Rockets.
The Lakers don't make much sense to me, as Howard has said he won't sign an extension in LA and Bynum (the likely trade piece for Howard) has said he won't sign an extension in Orlando. The Lakers don't have any good draft picks to offer and their team is old besides Bynum, so I don't see a deal getting done unless Bynum agrees to sign long-term in Orlando, which he won't.I could see the Rockets packaging Kevin Martin (who was reportedly on the trade block not long ago) along with one of the Rockets' recent draft picks, and a future pick or two for Howard.
I think the Magic should contact the Hawks and ask about the availability of Josh Smith, who has reportedly requested a trade. He could be a great centerpiece of a deal that could include a couple picks.
I also believe the Warriors, who reportedly were willing to "rent" Howard not too long ago, could come into play and offer David Lee along with Andrew Bogut and/or some draft picks.
If you want a more in-depth analysis of those trade scenarios, take a look at the link I posted above.
Trust me, I'm just as sick of this Dwightmare as you are. I really hope he doesn't go to the Nets for two reasons: 1) I'm a Knicks fan and the Nets would be filthy, and 2) I don't want Dwight to get what he wants after all this madness. The chances of Howard wearing a new jersey come opening night remain high, but the chances of it being a Brooklyn Nets jersey are dwindling. This situation should continue to be interesting and annoying simultaneously.
