The Los Angeles Lakers have joined the the group engaged in trade discussions with the Orlando Magic for Dwight Howard, according to Adrian Wojnarowski. While initial reports indicated that Howard had requested a trade to the Brooklyn Nets, the Lakers have also had preliminary discussions with the Magic over the weekend.
Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Lakers Discussing Deal With Magic, According To Report
The All-Star center claimed this weekend that he was "blackmailed" by the Magic when he decided to opt-in for an additional year this spring. While his preferred destination is still Brooklyn, new Orlando GM Rob Hennigan has put him on the trade market and is apparently listening to offers from at least three teams. Wojnarowski reports that a deal with LA would almost certainly have to include the Lakers' Andrew Bynum heading to Orlando:
While the Lakers have yet to make a direct offer, there's no scenario where Orlando would move Howard to the Lakers without getting back Andrew Bynum, L.A.'s 24-year-old All-Star center. Pau Gasol wouldn't fit the Magic's desires to rebuild with young players and draft picks.
In addition to the Lakers and Nets engaging the Magic, the Houston Rockets have also had discussions about trading for Howard.
For more on the Magic, visit Orlando Pinstriped Post and SB Nation Tampa Bay.
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