Dwight Howard Rumors: Magic Nearly Traded Howard To Lakers, According To Report

Did the current star of the Orlando Magic almost pull a Shaquille O'Neal and become a member of the Los Angeles Lakers at the trade deadline? If we're to believe an article published in the New York Post by Fred Kerber, Dwight Howard was almost traded to the Lakers rather than being traded to the Nets.

According to league sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity, Orlando brass got fed up with Howard's yes-no-maybe posturing and threatened to trade him to the Lakers, not his desired location, if he did not sign an agreement to waive the opt-out clause for the final season of his contract. Howard eventually signed the papers, but only after he was told "he would be a Laker by the end of the day," according to one source.

Howard still remains a part of the Magic team but it looks as though that this report could officially erode any amount of respect Magic fans still have for the former No. 1 overall draft pick. Howard is a great player, but this news that has come out the last couple of days does not look good for him.

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation’s Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post.

What To Make Of Dwight Howard's Trade Demands

Until Tuesday night Dwight Howard stood by his public announcement that he wanted to be traded. But after an overtime win against the Miami Heat, Howard told reporters he wanted to finish the season in Orlando. What happened in that locker room?

Dwight Howard, Alex Martins Praise The Magic For Playing Through The Distraction

Orlando Magic team president Alex Martins shared his thoughts on the Dwight Howard saga and Howard's decision to sign a waiver to stay with the team through next season. Martins sounded a particularly enthusiastic tone at the Thursday press conference, citing Howard's decision as a chance for the Magic to compete for an NBA title this year.

Over the course of past eight years, Dwight has grown with the organization, and this organization has grown with Dwight. We're in a better position today than ever before to win a championship.

Martins went on to commend the entire team for continuing to play competitive basketball in light of all the drama.

It's incredibly commendable what this team has done with questions hanging around organization in the past year, to have fourth-best record in NBA. [Orlando is] clearly in position to compete for an NBA championship this year. Hats off to everyone in that locker room for their professionalism, for how they've competed and put their heart out on the floor every single night.

Howard echoed Matins and offered a thanks to everyone for putting up with the back-and-forth.

It's been very tough past couple months to make a decision ... It's very hard. We're talking about a career-changing event. Going back and forth, one of the biggest reasons is to be loyal. I've always believed loyalty is before anything, and I owe loyalty to Otis Smith and the whole DeVos family. I want to try to make this work not just for our family, but for the city.

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation’s Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post.

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Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Howard Signs Waiver To Stay In Orlando For 2012-13

It appears that Dwight Howard has officially signed away his opt-out clause for his contract and will be staying with the Orlando Magic for the 2012-13 season, according to ESPN NBA insider Chris Broussard.

Chris Broussard reported on ESPN just now that he just received a text message from Dwight Howard saying he has signed the waiver.

— IamaGM.com (@IamaGM) March 15, 2012

If this is indeed true, the Magic have just put themselves as a contender for the NBA championship this season. It does raise the question now about what is going to go on next year around this time when Howard's contract officially ends.

Whats even more surprising is the fact that this waiver will go through without the signature of Howard's agent Dan Fegan.

A person briefed on the situation tells @CBSSports that the NBA will execute contract amendment without signature of agent Dan Fegan.

— Ken Berger (@KBergCBS) March 15, 2012

One can wonder now what the relationship between agent and player will be after this situation.

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation’s Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post.

For all your NBA trade deadline news, be sure to check in with SB Nation’s NBA news hub.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic Instructed Dwight Howard To 'Sleep On' Decision To Stay

The NBA Trade Deadline is a few hours away and the fate of Dwight Howard is still not completely decided. Howard made it known late last night that he would opt-in to his contract with the Magic for another year, but according to SB Nation, when he had the opportunity to make it official in writing, team management informed him to sleep on it and decide for sure on Thursday.

It's possible he was just reacting to some negative feedback he had gotten for how he handled the whole situation, so I think the Magic wanted to make sure that he really was on board. But that might not be the best idea.

Denton calls the move "classy." Others might call it "deluded," "naive" or "absolutely stupid in every possible way." Howard, you see, hasn't exactly shown a willingness to make a decision and stick with it over the last six months or so. He changed his mind on the ETO waiver three times on Wednesday alone, at least according to the reports that surfaced throughout the day. To be given a window to lock him in and tell him to sleep on it is akin to the horror flick killer who sabotages himself with a grand soliloquy while holding a knife to the protagonist's throat.

This is a classy move, but it could backfire. It doesn't seem like Howard knows what he wants right now, and they had a chance to lock him up for another year. It seems like they just wanted to make sure that he wasn't going to take them on this ride again next year, and if that was their intention, then it was probably a smart move.

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation’s Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post.

For all your NBA trade deadline news, be sure to check in with SB Nation’s NBA news hub.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Howard Confirms He Will Opt-In, Remain With Orlando Magic

The NBA rumor mill has been chocked to overflowing in recent days with speculation on Dwight Howard’s desires and future. Will the superstar center remain in Orlando? Is he planning to leave via free agency to the Nets? Will the Magic be forced to trade him, and if so, where will he end up?

With the NBA trade deadline today, it appears as though the situation is finally clearing up. Howard has stated that he plans to officially opt-in to the 2012-2013 option on his contract, allowing the Magic to keep him in Orlando through the end of this season and — at the very least — up until the trade deadline next season. This contradicts earlier reports that made it sound as though Howard wanted out of Orlando; he is signing up for one more season, giving him and the Magic more time to work out a solution for the future.

Although Howard hasn’t signed the waiver yet that would kick in his option, he states he will do it Thursday morning. He also appears genuinely contrite for the stir and drama he has caused:

“My soul, everything I have is in Orlando. I just can’t leave it behind.”

“I have gotten some bad advice,” said Howard. “I apologize for this circus I have caused to the fans of our city. They didn’t deserve none of this.”

If Howard carries through with his action, Magic fans will be able to breath a sign of relief. This is no long-term solution to this problem, but it’s at least a temporary solution and keeps Howard in Orlando for now.

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation’s Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post.

For all your NBA trade deadline news, be sure to check in with SB Nation’s NBA news hub.

Dwight Howard Trade Saga Takes Another Turn

The Dwight Howard trade saga that has lasted all season long and intensified over the past 48 hours as we approach the trade deadline took another turn early this morning when RealGM reported at 3:37 AM that Howard had told them that he was in fact planning on waiving his early termination option early Thursday morning. RealGM reports that Howard went on to apologize for the media circus that has surrounded his impending free agency and claim that his heart remains in Orlando. Amid swirling reports that Howard is considering firing his agent, RealGM reports that Howard also believes he has gotten bad advice.

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation's Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post. For all your NBA trade news, be sure to follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic Center Considering Firing His Agent, According To Report

The NBA Trade Deadline is on Thursday, which means that this whole Dwight Howard situation will finally be coming to a head. But even with all of the other stuff going on, Howard has enough time to consider firing his agent, according to our Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post.

According to Alex Kennedy of HOOPSWORLD, Howard is considering firing Fegan. Howard dismissed Aaron Goodwin, who had represented him since the Magic selected Howard 1st overall in the 2004 NBA Draft, in 2010. Because Fegan did not represent Howard when Howard inked his extension in 2007, he will not receive another commission until Howard signs his next deal. But if Howard fires him, Fegan--one of the most powerful agents in basketball--will be out of a commission altogether.

It's hard to believe that Howard would be upset with how his situation has played out since he has been in control since the beginning. But firing his agent will only complicate things. Gonna be a fun day!

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation'sMagic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post. For all your NBA trade news, be sure to follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Dwight Howard Rumors: Howard Refuses to Waive Opt Out, According to Report

The Orlando Magic are having an up and down day, as the Dwight Howard news bounces back and forth as his mind changes. Earlier it was reported that Howard would in fact waive his opt out option for the 2012-13 seasons and play out his contract. Later, a conflicting report came out saying that some Magic players in the team meeting with Howard were not told that he would play out his full contract, but just this season.

Now news breaks that Howard will not waive his opt out option, according to a report by Marc Stein of ESPN. It seems that Howard told his teammates he would surrender his ETO clause, but did so not fully understanding what that meant.

When asked why Howard told several teammates and members of the organization earlier in the day that he had indeed decided not to opt out of his contract, the source insisted that Howard "didn't fully understand the ramifications" of surrendering his ETO and did so largely because Magic officials warned him that he would be traded by Thursday's 3 p.m. trading deadline if he did not take that step.

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation's Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post. For all your NBA trade news, be sure to follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Teammates Claim Howard Did Not Say He Would Stay Beyond This Season, According To Report

With the news that Orlando Magic star center Dwight Howard has said he plans to finish out his contract with the Orlando Magic and not opt out next season, there are now conflicting reports have now surfaced. According to at least three teammates who were in the players only meeting claim that Howard did not inform the team that he would stay beyond the current season.

Three Magic players tell Y! Sports (2 to @SpearsNBAYahoo) and one to me that Dwight Howard did not tell them he was opting in for next year.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) March 14, 2012

Wojnarowski continued to expound on what took place in the next couple of Tweets, stating that one Magic player in the Howard meeting told Yahoo!, "Next year was not even mentioned in meeting...He told us he was "all-in" for this season."

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation's Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post. For all your NBA trade news, be sure to follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Howard Tells Magic He Will Stay With Team Next Season, According To Report

It appears as though Dwight Howard may be officially off the trade market this season. According to a report, he has told the Magic he will not opt-out of his contract and will stay in Orlando for the 2012-13 season.

As first reported by WFTV in Orlando, sources confirm Dwight Howard told teammates & confidantes he will play final option year of contract

— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) March 14, 2012

Howard must submit the paperwork to make his decision official. If he does, he will be with the Magic through the 2012-13 year. While it appeared that Howard was the big fish before NBA the trade deadline, if this report is true, it looks as though trade speculation just got a bit more boring just a day before the deadline.

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation'sMagic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post. For all your NBA trade news, be sure to follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic Officials Upset With Latest Comments, According To Report

The constant target of trade speculation, Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard made some comments on Tuesday night that have rubbed a lot of the fan base the wrong way. Howard said that he has decided to stay with the team throughout the rest of the regular season, a move many believe is because he wants to join the Nets without them having to gut their roster by trading for him. But that is not his choice to make, it's the organization's, and Howard's comments show that he has the control. Magic officials aren't too pleased about it.

Quite clearly, Dwight wants his cake and eat it, too. Some Magic officials privately disgusted with his comments tonight, sources say.

— Ken Berger (@KBergCBS) March 14, 2012

Howard is taking the Magic franchise hostage just like Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James before him, something that was not supposed to happen with the new CBA. Looks like whatever provisions they instituted to try and avoid this type of situation aren't really working.

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation'sMagic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post. For all your NBA trade news, be sure to follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Dwight Howard Wants To Stay With The Magic For The Rest Of The Season

After pouring in 24 points and 25 rebounds to help power the Magic to an overtime victory in what could be his last home game in Amway Center, Dwight Howard told reporters that he has requested to not be traded this season, and would rather get a chance to finish the season and compete to bring the Larry O'Brien trophy to Orlando. Howard, however, would not answer questions relating to whether he planned on staying with the Magic after the season.

Dwight Howard Post Game Interview

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic Getting Close To Decision

In a report by Ken Berger of CBSSports.com, he says the Orlando Magic are getting close to a decision on what they will do with Dwight Howard leading up to Thursday's trade deadline.

He is also reporting that no matter what happens this season, Howard already knows where he wants to be next season.

All signs continue to point to Howard, 26, wanting to land in Brooklyn next season with Deron Williams. "I think he wants that big market," said a person apprised of Howard's plans. Teams inquiring about Howard in recent days have been told, yet again, that his No. 1 choice is the Nets, who will open a new arena in Brooklyn next season.

In a tweet from Magic beat writer Josh Robbins, Magic owner Rich DeVos is still holding out hope that Dwight will stay past Thursday's deadline.

For more updates on the status of Dwight Howard, keep it to this StoryStream. For more news from around the Association, head over to the SB Nation NBA Hub Page.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic Star Determined To Join Nets In Summer, According To Report

Has Dwight Howard been setting up an exit to the New Jersey Nets this whole time? According to Yahoo! Sports writer Adrian Wojnarowski, he has. All the talk that he could be swayed to stay in Orlando if the Magic get a stronger cast around him is what Wojnarowski calls a "misdirection play on his eventual signing with the Brooklyn-bound New Jersey Nets, according to league sources."

This is the first time we've heard with any sort of confidence on what team Howard desires to go to. Also whats interesting in this article is what is written about Magic GM Otis Smith and head coach Stan Van Gundy.

Magic general manager Otis Smith and coach Stan Van Gundy have known Howard the longest. They know he will leave them and they want a deal done prior to Thursday's 3 p.m. ET trade deadline. The gulf between Martins and his basketball operations staff has become vast, full of mistrust and animosity. "Otis and Stan want the circus to end," one source close to them said. "They want a deal."

Whether a deal is made before the trade deadline remains to be seen. But with this news coming from league sources, the logic here should be to trade Howard for whatever you can get for him.

For more news on NBA Trade Rumors leading up to the deadline, keep it to this StoryStream. For more on the Magic, check out the SB Nation blog Orlando Pinstripe Post.

NBA Trade Rumors: Magic Doing Everything Possible To Help Howard Before Deadline, According To Report

With the trade deadline looming at 3 p.m. on Thursday afternoon, the Orlando Magic front office is wringing its hands trying to figure out what to do. Do they stand pat and hope that they can convince Dwight Howard to sign when free agency begins, running the risk of getting nothing for him like with LeBron James with Cleveland two years ago or even Shaquille O'Neal back in 1996? Do they placate Howard by getting another playmaker via a trade and hope that a deep playoff run will help keep Howard in Orlando? Or do they pull the trigger on Howard now and get something, whether its draft picks or other players.

Right now, Orlando seems to be exploring every possible option before looking to trade Howard, according to reports. In an article posted on ESPN.com by Marc Stein and Chris Broussard, it addresses the fact that Magic owner Richard DeVos wants to keep Howard on the Magic

The Magic will thus have to decide Thursday if they can bear to keep Howard past the deadline, as owner Richard DeVos wants, and expose themselves to the possibility that the 26-year-old could walk away for nothing in July -- a la Shaquille O'Neal in the summer of 1996 -- or make the best possible trade they can make this week at the 11th hour.

Magic officials have been telling teams for weeks that they intend to keep Howard at DeVos' behest. The thinking there, sources said, is that the Magic still like their chances of changing Howard's mind -- believing that a successful playoff run or his deep roots in the Orlando community will ultimately make it hard to leave -- better than anything they can get in a trade.

DeVos must have a lot of confidence that what happened with O'Neal in 1996 won't happen again in 2012 with Howard. If Howard does bolt for a different team, it won't be as devastating a loss as James was to Cleveland, but it'll still keep the Magic out of the contender's conversation for quite awhile.

For more news on NBA Trade Rumors leading up to the deadline, keep it to thisStoryStream. For more on the Magic, check out the SB Nation blog Orlando Pinstripe Post.

NBA Trade Rumors: Warriors Have No Interest In Trading Monta Ellis, According To Report

Despite the rumors floating around that the Orlando Magic was working on a three-team deal to acquire Golden State Warriors' guard Monta Ellis, Warrior owner Joe Lacob has no interest in trading him according to CBS' Ken Berger.

Despite Orlando's efforts to appease Dwight Howard by acquiring Monta Ellis, GSW owner Joe Lacob has no interest in the deal, sources say.

— Ken Berger (@KBergCBS) March 13, 2012

This deal being struck down does raise some questions for the Magic with their chances to re-sign Dwight Howard if he is not traded at the deadline. Ellis would have been a major acquisition for the Magic and would have helped them late in games with his shot selection. It also could have helped them late in games if the score was close and they had a threat like Ellis.

For more news on NBA Trade Rumors leading up to the deadline, keep it to this StoryStream. For more on the Magic, check out the SB Nation blog Orlando Pinstripe Post.

NBA Trade Rumors: Magic Working On Three-Team Trade To Land Monta Ellis

The Orlando Magic are walking a very tight line this trading season. They have to decide whether or not to trade Dwight Howard or try to pieces around him to entice him to stay with the Magic. The latest rumor has Otis Smith attempting the latter. According to Ken Berger at CBS vis the guys at SB Nation, the Magic are exploring a three-team trade that would land Monta Ellis in Orlando.

The Warriors would get Bogut from the Bucks and send Ellis to Orlando as part of the Magic's efforts to persuade Dwight Howard that they are prepared to continue surrounding him with top-flight talent. The Magic are exploring multiple scenarios to upgrade their roster in the hopes that Howard would then relent on his strategy to opt out of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.

It is hard to know that the Magic could give up that would entice the Bucks to give Bogut to the Warriors, but Ellis would be a good fit for the Magic as a guy who can create his own shot and take control of games.

For more news on NBA Trade Rumors leading up to the deadline, keep it to thisStoryStream. For more on the Magic, check out the SB Nation blog Orlando Pinstripe Post.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic Trying To Acquire Asset To Keep Howard Long-Term, According To Report

The Orlando Magic will spend the next two days trying to acquire a difference-making player that would persuade Dwight Howard to sign with the Magic for the long-term, according to a report from ESPN. Chris Broussard and Marc Stein reported on Monday night that the Magic will first be buyers, before becoming potential sellers on the deadline day, Thursday, and entertaining further deals Howard.

There are few details about potential targets for the Magic at this point, with some rumblings that they're keen on adding Golden State's Monta Ellis. But it doesn't appear that the Warriors are interested in any package the Magic could offer at this point - particularly one that doesn't include Howard landing in the Bay Area. One thing is for sure, it will be a wild three days for the Magic front office.

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation's Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post. For all your NBA trade news, be sure to follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic May Keep Howard Through Trade Deadline, According To Report

The NBA Trade Deadline is coming up fast, and the biggest story in the NBA in that time will be whether or not the Magic elect to trade Dwight Howard, or gamble that they will be able to retain him after he becomes a free agent this Summer. Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated has sent out a series of tweet this morning that indicated that Howard would be comfortable staying with the Magic after the Trade Deadline.

I'm told Howard prefers going to free agency. Doesn't want a team he is traded to gutted just to get him.

— Chris Mannix (@ChrisMannixSI) March 12, 2012

This kind of flies in the face of the trade request that Howard submitted earlier this year, but it certainly make sense. But the next tweet is even more interesting.

If Howard goes to free agency, throw out the three-team (Dallas, NJ, LAL) list. It's open season for bidding. LeBron, part II.

— Chris Mannix (@ChrisMannixSI) March 12, 2012

Until now most believed that those three teams would be his preferred destinations no matter when they had the option to acquire him. But maybe some other teams will be able to step up their efforts and Howard could land with a team that nobody sees coming. Finally, a little bit of wishful thinking on Howard's part.

Two teams sources say tell SI Howard will have interest in: Clippers and Miami. There are cap issues, but the interest is real.

— Chris Mannix (@ChrisMannixSI) March 12, 2012

I'm not sure how he could fit into the cap room for either of those teams, particularly the Heat, but a boy can dream can't he?

For more news on NBA Trade Rumors leading up to the deadline, keep it to thisStoryStream. For more on the Magic, check out the SB Nation blog Orlando Pinstripe Post.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic Would Like Chicago Bulls As Trade Partner, According To Report

The Orlando Magic have insisted in recent weeks that they are more than willingly to hold on to star center Dwight Howard and not trade him, but as seems to happen once a week Howard's name is now being thrown around in conjunction with another team, this time the Chicago Bulls. The problem? Howard has given zero indication he would go to Chicago. Via Ken Berger of CBSSports.com:

Dwight update: The Bulls emerge as Orlando's preferred trading partner, but not without commitment from Howard. #NBA goo.gl/nUdzC

— Ken Berger (@KBergCBS) March 12, 2012

In his column on the topic, Berger notes that though executives from both teams have talked, there has been no real movement since the Bulls are not on Howard's trade approval list:

Such a scenario has gained no traction since Chicago is "not on his list," a person familiar with the situation said of Howard. Without assurances from Howard or his camp that he'd be willing to sign long-term with the Bulls, Chicago executives have exhibited no appetite for trade talks with the Magic. The two teams have spoken, but there's "no type of serious discussions" going on, a person familiar with the situation said.

So, in other words, the saga continues.

For more news on NBA Trade Rumors leading up to the deadline, keep it to thisStoryStream. For more on the Magic, check out the SB Nation blog Orlando Pinstripe Post.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Orlando Trying To Make Move To Keep Howard Happy

As the NBA Trade Deadline approaches, everyone is wondering if Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard gets traded or the Magic make a move to appease Dwight and hope to sign him long-term to remain in Orlando. The problem with that however is that Orlando does not have many moveable or attractive trade pieces outside of Howard, according to Marc Stein of ESPN.

I would likewise be willing to (not so boldly) wager -- if I partook in such activities -- that the Magic have zero chance of completing the fantasy acquisition of a backcourt stud that can wow Howard. You've surely heard by now that the players they're chasing are Phoenix's Steve Nash and Golden State's Monta Ellis. Orlando, though, has nowhere close to the trade assets to acquire either one.

The Magic are going to have to get creative if they want to find another backcourt player to add to the Magic or just bite the bullet and see what they can get for Howard before they're left with nothing in free agency after the season. One thing is for certain however, is the Magic will need to start dangling more than Hedo Turkoglu, who's contract is an albatross in any trade discussions. Stein also notes that if the Magic want to dump off Hedo in a trade, they're going to have to give up some future first-round draft picks as well.

Said another front-office source of the $18 million that Turkoglu is guaranteed over the next two seasons after this one: "They'd have to be willing to throw in at least two [future] first-round picks to get someone to take him."

For more on the Orlando Magic and potential trades at the NBA deadline, visit SB Nation's Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post.

Magic Trade Rumors: Orlando Pursuing Michael Beasley From Timberwolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves are looking to unload Michael Beasley, and the Orlando Magic are one of the leading suitors for the forward's services according to Ken Berger of CBSSports.com. Beasley would help bolster Orlando's frontcourt as the team preps for a deep, potentially Dwight Howard-saving playoff run.

Then again, as Orlando Pinstripe Post points out, Beasley is hardly a game changer. The former No. 2 overall pick is averaging just 11.9 points and 4.8 rebounds in 24.3 minutes per game, all of which are career lows.

According to Berger, the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers are also in pursuit in Beasley. The Nets may also look to add him in hopes of making the team more attractive to Howard and Deron Williams. Beasley has previous been linked to the Phoenix Suns and the Golden State Warriors.

For more news on NBA Trade Rumors leading up to the deadline, keep it to this StoryStream. For more on the Magic, check out the SB Nation blog Orlando Pinstripe Post.

What Does Dwight Howard Mean To Orlando?

What does Dwight Howard mean to Orlando? As we await the trade deadline we look back at the moments that built Howard's legacy in Orlando. From controversial preps-to-pro draft pick to emergent superstar to three-time Defensive Player of the Year, what has Howard meant to Orlando?

Top 5 Possible Trade Scenarios for Dwight Howard

As the Dwight Howard saga continues, we look at possible trade situations that not only make sense... but may actually happen.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: CEO Alex Martins Doing All He Can To Resist Trading Howard

With the NBA Trade Deadline coming closer and closer, the Orlando Magic have bumped up efforts to improve relations with superstar forward Dwight Howard with hopes he will stay with the Magic after the season.

According to a report by Alex Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports, Orlando Magic CEO Alex Martins is encouraged by the relationship he and Dwight Howard have struck up despite the fact that Martins has only been running the team for three months. Martins has been doing all he can to avoid a scenario that would involve trading Howard at the deadline.

"I've been at this for 90 days - not seven years - and if I'm going to have an influence on the process, I need to utilize as much as time as we possibly can before we make a decision," Martins says. "And I've built a good relationship with him. We've had good conversations with him and some of his people."

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic CEO Alex Martins Says Team Hopes To Re-Sign Howard This Summer

With the NBA trade deadline looming, the rumors about Dwight Howard's future status with the Orlando Magic continues to be a topic of much speculation. In recent conversations with Yahoo! Sports, Magic CEO Alex Martins has reassured fans that he is trying to work on a deal to keep Howard in Orlando.

On keeping Dwight Howard, Magic CEO Alex Martins tells Y!: "We’ve had good conversations with him, and with his people. That gives me hope."

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) March 2, 2012

Martins reiterates to Y! Sports that Orlando is still working to convince Dwight Howard to re-sign -- and not yet preparing to trade him.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) March 2, 2012

The trade deadline is March 15. If Orlando doesn't make a deal at the deadline, they have to wonder how much it will take to keep Howard with the Magic rather than signing somewhere else.

For more on the developments on Dwight Howard's status with the Magic, keep subscribed to this StoryStream.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Golden State Reportedly Continuing Pursuit Of Dwight Howard

NBA.com writer Scott Howard-Cooper is reporting that the Golden State Warriors are still in pursuit of a trade to bring the superstar forward to Oakland. Earlier this afternoon he tweeted:

"Warriors continuing push for Dwight Howard deal even without DH commitment to re-signing. Not backing off from risky move, source says."

The move would be a risky one indeed, especially with what Howard-Cooper believes the price would be.

Via Twitter

GSW offer has to be 3-4 key pieces. Imagine moving Monta, Klay, others and DH walks.

Golden State currently sits at 13-17 and three games out of a playoff spot. Moving such key players such as Monta Ellis and Klay Thompson wouldn't make much sense just to bring Dwight Howard in for a playoff push when he wouldn't be guaranteeing resigning after his half of a season with the club.

Either way, this is an interesting development, and one worth keeping an eye on.

For more on the developments on Dwight Howard's status with the Magic, keep it to this StoryStream.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Lakers Could Organize Three Team Trade With Raptors

Need more trade rumors? Check out the latest at SBNation.com's StoryStream.

Now that the All-Star game is over, and the Magic don't have to face the idea of Dwight Howard coming back to their arena in another jersey, the chances that he'll get traded have increased drastically. A new rumor has emerged that has another team joining the Lakers in a three-way trade that would send Howard to La-La Land, according to Brian Schmitz of the Orlando Sentinel, via SB Nation.

It goes something like this: The Magic send Howard, SF Hedo Turkoglu and Nelson to the Lakers; the Magic receive Bynum and Gasol. The salaries are close to matching up, making the deal work.

A third team, the Toronto Raptors, could be part of the deal or in a separate trade with the Magic, sending PG José Calderon to Orlando.

There is still a lot of work to be done here because the Raptors aren't getting anything in exchange for Calderon. But it seems like Howard might get his wish to move to a bigger market, and he could get to bring his best friend Jameer Nelson with him.

For more on this story and all things related to Orlando Magic basketball please stay with this StoryStream or head over to Orlando Pinstriped Post.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Of Course The Knicks Are Hypothetically In The Mix

The always on-top-of-it Tom Ziller of SB Nation brings to attention a Dwight Howard trade column today from the New York Post's Peter Vescey. Not surprisingly, Vecsey is mentioning the possibility of the New York Knicks being interested in trading for Orlando's Dwight Howard. From Vecsey's column:

"I'm positive the Knicks have called just in case Dwight changes up," an Eastern Conference GM said. "I'm sure they've offered a combination of everybody, excluding Jeremy Lin, of course. Otis deserves a lot of credit for not putting it out on the street which teams have offered what."

I particularly enjoy Ziller's response to the unnamed GM quote Vecsey used:

Amar'e Stoudemire? Pfft. Carmelo Anthony? Ha! Tyson Chandler? Go ahead. Jeremy Lin -- Jeremy Lin -- is the only untouchable on the Knicks roster? I mean, I know it would be suicidal for the franchise to trade the marketing entity that is Lin, even if the basketball properties of Lin-for-Dwight are so insulting as to be laughable. But that's where we are.

Try to enjoy the All-Star Game, Magic fans. Because this Dwight Howard trade nonsense isn't going away anytime soon.

For more on this story and all things related to Orlando Magic basketball please stay with this StoryStream or head over to Orlando Pinstriped Post.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Nothing New At All-Star Weekend

As All-Star Weekend in Orlando begins Friday evening, a lot of trade questions are being asked now about the biggest star of the host city Dwight Howard. The trade deadline is looming at the end of the festivities and while Howard was asked about it, nothing new came out in an interview with Pro Basketball Talk's Kurt Helin.

The situation we are in right now is All-Star Weekend. That's the only thing that matters right now. This is for the fans and we're going to enjoy ourselves. All that stuff can go on after the All-Star break.

Its not a huge surprise that Howard doesn't want the distractions of his trade rumors to take away from the All-Star Weekend. Even NBA commissioner David Stern didn't want this to distract from the festivitites.

I'm not going to allow this line of questioning to ruin the fact that Orlando is a spectacular city, having a wonderful All-Star Weekend. So I don't want to feed into a heightened sense of deprivation because Orlando is anything but deprived.

So in short, just enjoy All-Star Weekend and let the chips fall where they may when Monday rolls around.

For more on this story and all things related to Orlando Magic basketball please stay with this StoryStream or head over to Orlando Pinstriped Post.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Nets Working On Multi-Team Dwight Howard Trade

While all of the speculation has been pretty quiet over the past few months, it is expected to pick up over the next month or so in advance of the trade deadline on March 15th. According to Chris Mannix via SB Nation, the Nets have re-emerged as a potential trade destination and are working on a multi-team trade to try and acquire the Magic center.

Brook Lopez is considered to be the centerpiece of any Nets' package; Lopez made his season debut last weekend after a preseason injury that required surgery kept him out of the team's first 32 games. The Nets would need to rely on their status as a preferred destination for Howard to gain favor from Orlando.

Trade activity will probably heat up after March 1st when players who were signed or acquired in the offseason can be moved in a trade. That increases the number of players in the pool that can be traded and thus the likelihood that a trade agreement can be reached.

For more on this story and all things related to Orlando Magic basketball please head over to Orlando Pinstriped Post.

NBA Trade Rumors: Orlando Magic Inquire About Trading Dwight Howard For New York Knicks' Ama're Stoudemire And Tyson Chandler, According To Report

The trade rumors surrounding Dwight Howard continued on Monday afternoon, with the latest speculation that Otis Smith and the Orlando Magic have inquired with the New York Knicks about trading the franchise center for Amare Stoudemire and Tyson Chandler. ESPN's Stephen A. Smith sparked the rumor, speaking on a New York radio station.

Via ESPNNewYork.com:

"I will preface my statement by telling you that [the Magic] have categorically denied this, but my sources tell me that they have inquired about Tyson Chandler and Amar'e Stoudemire going to Orlando for Dwight Howard."

This latest rumor seems to be pretty far-fetched, but it is just another distraction in a season of persistent trade speculation centered on Howard. The Knicks are currently in freefall, losing their last six games and prompting questions about the ability of Carmelo Anthony and Stoudemire to coexist. But according to previous reports, New York is not a potential destination, with Smith granting Howard's agent permission to talk to the Nets, Mavericks, and Lakers about a deal.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Magic, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

Orlando Magic Rumors: Team 'Has Not Ruled Out' Steve Nash Trade, Could Extend Ryan Anderson Contract, According To Report

The Orlando Magic's 10-4 start to the 2011/12 season has the team thinking it may not have to part ways with superstar center Dwight Howard, who has requested a trade, after all, a new report by Ken Berger says. "Orlando executives believe the analysis of the Howard situation has ignored an important consideration," writes the CBSSports.com scribe. "The Magic can request trades too, and make them."

Rather than trading Howard before the March 15 deadline and beginning their rebuilding effort, Orlando may seek to add major talent via trade, which would accomplish two goals: put the team back into championship contention and make a final push for Howard to re-sign when he becomes a free agent in the summer of 2012. One trade possibility is with the Phoenix Suns, Berger says, for point guard Steve Nash. Citing sources, Berger reports "Orlando has not ruled out making a play" for the future Hall-of-Fame point guard.

With Jameer Nelson struggling--Zach Lowe of SB Nation partner Sports Illustrated named the eight-year veteran one of the league's most disappointing players--the time may be right to make a change, and Nash would be an excellent fit in Orlando's offense. The 37-year-old is averaging 15.1 points per game and leads the league with 10.1 assists.

Further, Orlando may elect not to trade Howard at all, and risk watching him leave as a free agent with no compensation. Berger says that's "not particularly appealing," but a sign-and-trade deal with the Los Angeles Clippers may be possible, and the Magic could potentially acquire superstar power forward Blake Griffin, the reigning Rookie of the Year, in such a deal.

In non-Howard news, the Magic may decide to offer power forward Ryan Anderson a contract extension this season. Berger, again citing sources, lists the Cal product as one of "the most likely candidates" to get an extension before the deadline for 2008 draftees expires on Jan. 25. In his fourth season, Anderson has emerged as Orlando's second-leading scorer, putting in 17.8 points per game, 7.2 rebounds per game, and leading the league in three-pointers made (46) and attempted (111) through 14 games.

For more on the Magic, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Clippers Among Howard's Desired Destinations, According To Report

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has added the Los Angeles Clippers to the list of teams to which he'd commit long-term, Chris Sheridan reported Monday, citing a source. Howard had previously sought a trade to either the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, or New Jersey Nets. "He's been watching them a lot," Sheridan's source said. "He's intrigued by the Clippers."

Howard, who can become a free agent in the summer of 2012, has sought a trade from Orlando, looking to play for a winning team in a bigger market. The Magic granted Dan Fegan, Howard's agent, permission to seek a trade with Dallas, the Lakers, and New Jersey; whether they'll allow him to discuss trades with the Clippers remains to be seen.

According to Ramona Shelburne of ESPN Los Angeles, the Clippers and the Magic "haven't had any serious discussions [...] about Howard since the lockout was lifted."

For more on the Magic, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

Dwight Howard Rumors: Despite Trade Request, Orlando Magic Center Remains Professional, Says Report

Dwight Howard hasn't rescinded his trade request from the Orlando Magic, as Josh Robbins of the Orlando Sentinel reported Sunday, but neither he nor Orlando has let the drama surrounding his situation become a distraction. "The NBA's preeminent big man [is] determined to share peace and pleasantries with his Magic teammates and coaches," Sam Amick of Sports Illustrated writes, "despite the fact that his uncomfortable trade demand that was issued in early December still stands."

The vibe is professional all around. "I'm going to go be Dwight every night," Howard said. "Have fun on the court, entertain the fans, block shots, run the floor, rebound, do whatever I've got to do to win." Stan Van Gundy, the Magic's head coach, said the situation was "awkward and difficult" during training camp, but "since the season has started, it's been very, very normal."

In December, Howard asked Otis Smith, the Magic's President of Basketball Operations, to trade him to either the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, or New Jersey Nets. The Magic granted Dan Fegan, Howard's agent, permission to discuss trades regarding Howard with those teams.

Orlando is in no hurry to trade Howard and, as Amick notes, Howard's top destinations may not have enough to offer Orlando to make trading him worthwhile from the Magic's perspective. Dallas has can offer neither salary relief nor young prospects, while the Lakers have refused to include both Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol in a deal for Howard. Further, Amick reports, Smith "is not a fan" of Nets center Brook Lopez, the 23-year-old prospect who would anchor any offer New Jersey made Orlando.

For more on the Magic, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic Center Has Not Rescinded Trade Request

A few weeks before the NBA season began Dwight Howard requested a trade and the NBA blogosphere went ballistic for a few days. There were proposed trades from all corners of the Internet, most of them were shot down as ludicrous, and everyone just sort of moved on. But according to Josh Robbins of the Orlando Sentinel, Dwight Howard has not rescinded his request to be traded.

"Nothing has changed," Howard said before the Magic faced the Sacramento Kings at Power Balance Pavilion on Sunday.

Otis Smith confirmed Howard has not taken his trade request off the table and that Howard's agent still has permission to speak with three, and only three, teams: the Dallas Mavericks, the Los Angeles Lakers and the New Jersey Nets.

I guess since nothing had really developed on that front, we all just sort of forgot about it. But Howard clearly isn't impressed with the moves that the Magic made in the offseason, or the way they've played so far this season, enough to want to stick around. It will be interesting to see if as Howard's frustrations grow, the list of teams he is willing to be traded to grows.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Warriors Reportedly Pursuing Magic Center

Interest in Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard remains high as Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski reports the Golden State Warriors "have emerged as aggressive suitors for the NBA’s best center, league sources told Yahoo! Sports."

Howard has been at the center of trade rumors for months, and a number of teams have expressed interest in him. The Magic haven't quite found their cup of tea yet, however, and seem content to sit on his 19.0 points per game, 16.0 rebounds per game and 2.7 blocks for game in the final year of his contract.

Wojnarowski says a deal with the Warriors could be built around guard Stephen Curry, but that a determination will have to be made about how healthy his right ankle is. Curry just suffered the third ankle sprain of his season already, putting his status as a potential building block for the Magic in serious jeopardy, at least in the immediate future.

For more on the Magic, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Atlanta Hawks Reportedly Made Offer For Orlando Magic Center

The Atlanta Hawks are the latest team whose trade offer for Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has been revealed, reports Marc Stein of ESPN.com, citing "sources." Atlanta offered All-Star shooting guard Joe Johnson and athletic power forward Josh Smith to the Magic for Howard, an Atlanta native. "You have to figure that the Magic, though, would insist on Al Horford if such discussions ever got serious," Stein says.

Orlando granted Dan Fegan, Howard's agent, permission to discuss trades with the Los Angeles Lakers, New Jersey Nets, and Dallas Mavericks, so a trade to Atlanta appears to be unlikely. Those three teams, along with Orlando, are the only ones to which Howard, who can become a free agent in the summer of 2012, would commit.

Stein believes the Magic "would not hold out for youth and draft picks" in a potential Howard trade, in contrast to what the New Orleans Hornets did when they dealt All-Star point guard Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Clippers prior to the season. Instead, Orlando wishes "to bring back multiple established veterans who can keep the team competitive," as it has a brand-new arena, Amway Center, to keep full. Johnson and Smith fit that criterion for Orlando, but Howard has yet to indicate he's interested in a trade to Atlanta.

For more on the Magic, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

NBA Free Agency: Earl Clark Agrees To Deal With Magic

The Orlando Magic are still filling out their roster, and that means bringing back Earl Clark, according to Adrian Wojnarowski.

Earl Clark has agreed to a two-year deal with the Orlando Magic, league source tells Y! Sports.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) December 15, 2011

Clark came over from the Phoenix Suns midway through last year and averaged just 4.1 points and 2.5 rebounds in just under 12 minutes a game. But Clark is still young (will turn 24 in January) and is considered to have a lot of potential because he has a lot of skill for such a tall guy.

Despite his potential, Clark still figures to be the third small forward on the depth chart behind Hedo Turkoglu and Quentin Richardson. He could also fill in some spot minutes at power forward behind Glen Davis, Ryan Anderson and possibly the newly drafted Justin Harper.

For more on the Orlando Magic and all of their offseason moves, head over to Orlando Pinstriped Post.

Dwight Howard Update: Magic Deny Cutting Off Trade Discussions

Earlier this week reports started to emerge that the Orlando Magic were pulling Dwight Howard off of the trade block and he would no loner be available to the other 29 teams in the league. According to the team's President of Basketball Operations, via our very busy Orlando Pinstriped Post, that may not be the case.

The ongoing trade drama surrounding the Orlando Magic and Dwight Howard took another strange turn Wednesday afternoon. First, the organization refuted a Yahoo! Sports report that it had stopped listening to trade offers for Howard. "That's not where we are," Otis Smith, the team's President of Basketball Operations, told Josh Robbins. "What we’ve basically said is we don’t feel like we have to trade him today. We’re going to continue to look and explore opportunities. Actually, I don’t know if anything changed in my mind."

It seems like the Magic are just trying to drive the price up on Howard as far as it can go, and now that Chris Paul has been traded the market seems to be set. The magic will likely ask for the world for Dwight, and they might get it if they continue to hold out.

NBA Rumors: Orlando Magic Stop Dwight Howard Trade Discussions

The Orlando Magic have made it clear to the NBA's other teams they are not entertaining trade offers for Dwight Howard and will start the season with their superstar center, reports Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports. The Magic decided Wednesday to end trade discussions involving Howard after the latest offer from the New Jersey Nets, with whom they'd discussed a Howard trade in depth, failed to impress them.

In a new, three-team trade the Nets proposed, Orlando would send Howard and Hedo Turkoglu to New Jersey for 23-year-old center Brook Lopez. The Magic would also receive forward Gerald Wallace, a one-time All-Star, from the Portland Trail Blazers, as New Jersey would send draft picks the Blazers' way.

New Jersey is one of the three teams to which Howard, who can become a free agent in 2012, would accept a trade. In addition to staying with Orlando, Howard is also considering continuing his career with the Nets, Dallas Mavericks, and Los Angeles Lakers.

Orlando could be pulling Howard off the market in order to increase his trade value, but it would not make this move if it did not believe it stood a chance of convincing Howard to re-sign long term.

For more Magic coverage, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

NBA Rumors: Dwight Howard Trade To New Jersey Nets Could Bring Brook Lopez, Gerald Wallace To Orlando Magic

The Orlando Magic, New Jersey Nets, and Portland Trail Blazers have discussed a three-team trade which would send Magic superstar center Dwight Howard to New Jersey while fetching 23-year-old center prospect Brook Lopez from the Nets and veteran combo forward Gerald Wallace from Portland, according to a report from ESPN New York. In an effort to improve its trade offer for Howard, New Jersey recruited Portland into joining the proposed deal by offering to send draft considerations its way in exchange for the Blazers re-routing Wallace to Orlando.

In addition to receiving Wallace and Lopez, the Magic would shed the bloated salaries of Hedo Turkoglu and Chris Duhon in the proposed trade, the report says.

The Nets have long made clear they intend to offer Lopez for Howard, but he on his own isn't nearly enough to convince Orlando to part with the league's best center. Adding Wallace to the deal sweetens it a bit, but in all likelihood he's not nearly the caliber of player who could convince the Magic to seriously consider this trade. Though a one-time All-Star, Wallace's skills and productivity have diminished in recent seasons. He averaged 15.7 points, eight rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game in 2010/11, split between the Charlotte Bobcats and Portland.

Ken Berger of CBS Sports cites a source as saying Orlando is "not in a rush to do anything" regarding Howard. "If people think things are imminent, then they're being led down the wrong path," the source told Berger.

For more on the Magic, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

NBA Free Agency: Magic One Of Four Teams Dwight Howard Would Sign With

The orlando Magic are reportedly involved with other teams in trade discussions for Dwight Howard but their preference, obviously, would be to re-sign the dominant center in Orlando. According to our very own Orlando Pinstriped Post, the Magic are in fact one of the four teams that Howard would reportedly sign an extension with after this contract.

The Orlando Magic are one of the four teams to which Dwight Howard would consider committing long-term, according to a sourced report from ESPN's Chris Broussard, further indicating the team's franchise center may not have decided to leave Orlando after all. Howard's decision will come down to Orlando, the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, and New Jersey Nets, Broussard says; no other teams are in the running.

Howard re-signing with the Magic is apparently contingent on the team making enough moves to make the roster competitive before he elects to put ink to paper on that new contract. Whether or not they'll be able to do that before a decision must be made on is future remains to be seen.

NBA Free Agency: Magic Reportedly Discussing Complex Dwight Howard Trade With Nets

The Dwight Howard rumors continue to swirl around Orlando Magic training camp, with the latest bringing news of a potentially revived trade with the New Jersey Nets, via our own Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post.

The Orlando Magic and New Jersey Nets have set "the framework of a possible four-team deal" in which the Magic would trade superstar center Dwight Howard and starting small forward Hedo Turkoglu to New Jersey in exchange for center prospect Brook Lopez and "another significant player obtained elsewhere," according to a report by Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski. "No deal was imminent," the Yahoo! scribe says, "but several league sources said talks were entering a crucial time, and the Nets were trying to get the proposal's complex framework completed in the near future."

We had already been aware of a trade with the New Jersey Nets revolving around Brook Lopez, but it appears that the Magic want to get more young talent back in the form of actual players instead of just draft picks.

NBA Free Agency: Dwight Howard Wanted Magics To Claim Chauncey Billups

The Orlando Magic aren't sure how long Dwight Howard will still be on their roster, but it appears that while he is still around, he wants to help make a lot of the personnel decisions and roster moves. The latest, according to our Orlando Pinstriped Post blog was his interest in the Magic picking up Chauncey Billups off waivers, a move that is no longer possible after the Clippers claimed him on Monday.

During the Orlando Magic's annual Media Day event Monday, franchise center Dwight Howard--whose trade request became public Saturday--softened his stance on leaving Orlando, leaving open the possibility that he would stay if the team made certain moves. "If you're willing to change and you're willing to do what it takes to win, then, you know, you've got me," Howard said, according to Brian Schmitz of the Orlando Sentinel.

Howard has put the Magic in a very tough situation. He is putting a lot of pressure on the front office to make moves that might not pan out once he is no longer with the team. And the moves the team has made, signing Glen Davis for example, might not be enough to make a huge difference through this season.

NBA Free Agency: Orlando Magic Agree To Deal With Jason Richardson

The Orlando Magic will re-sign shooting guard Jason Richardson to a 4-year deal worth about $25 million, according to our very own Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post. Here is a little bit more info on Richardson.

Smith acquired Richardson's expiring contract from the Phoenix Suns last December. He started each of his 55 regular-season appearances for Orlando, averaging 13.9 points, four rebounds, and two assists per game. He shot 43.3 percent from the field overall and 38.4 percent on three-pointers. Though a capable outside shooter, Richardson struggles to create his own shot and draw fouls. Further, his shooting percentages, scoring, and rebounding declined after coming to Orlando despite his playing three more minutes per game on average.

With the threat of Dwight Howard leaving at basically any moment, it's important for the Magic to add as many players to the team as they can in the hope to quell him and make him happy for as long as possible.

NBA Free Agency: Glen Davis Trade Delayed By FIBA Paperwork

The Orlando Magic agreed to a trade on Friday that will send Brandon Bass to the Boston Celtics in exchange for Glen "Big Baby" Davis and reserve shooting guard Von Wafer. The trade has yet to be officially processed by the league because Von Wafer has yet to have his waiver processed by FIBA after Wafer signed with a European team during the lockout, according to our Magic blog Orlando PInstriped Post.

Once FIBA clears Wafer, Orlando can officially trade Brandon Bass to the Boston Celtics for him and Davis. The teams reached an agreement on that trade Friday, according to multiple reports. Davis will join the Magic on a four-year contract worth $26 million, while Wafer will sign a small, three-year deal with team options on the second and third years.

Davis was one of the players that Dwight Howard requested the Magic sign from free agency, so it will be important for them to get him into camp as soon as possible to help make Howard as comfortable as possible.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic Star Officially Requests Trade

Orlando Magic superstar Dwight Howard has officially requested a trade, according to Josh Robbins of the Orlando Sentinel.

Robbins reports that the Magic General Manager Otis Smith confirmed that Howard has twice asked to be traded in separate conversations since Monday. Smith granted Howard and his representatives permission on Friday to contact the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks and New Jersey Nets in search of a possible trade deal.

Howard is still participating in training camp with the Magic. Smith stated that Orlando is still hoping to retain Howard long-term, and will make "every effort" to retain the center. Smith also noted that neither Howard nor his reps have officially ruled out a return to Orlando.

Smith has until the trade deadline of March 15 to decide on whether to deal Howard to another team for maximum value, since he would otherwise depart the Magic in 2012 as an unrestricted free agent.

For more Magic coverage, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

NBA Free Agency 2011: Miami Heat Sign Eddy Curry Officially

The Miami Heat got into the NBA free agency pool for the 2011 NBA season, but they're not making the big splashes like they did last season with the likes of LeBron James and Chris Bosh. The Heat did officially sign Eddy Curry however, as the team announced on Twitter.

OFFICIAL: The @MiamiHEAT sign Eddy Curry to a contract. http://pic.twitter.com/ATO04Uqy

Curry shares an agent with Heat forward LeBron James and worked out with the team several times last season, but was never signed.  Curry has battled weight issues in his ten-year playing career. He in the 2010-2011 season with the New York Knicks before being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves as part of a three-team deal that sent Carmelo Anthony to New York. Curry's contract was bought out by the Timberwolves in March and never played a game with the Timberwolves.

For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

NBA Free Agency 2011: Orlando Magic Grant Dwight Howard Permission To Speak With Three Teams, Including New Jersey Nets

Orlando Magic Waive Gilbert Arenas Via Amnesty Clause

The Orlando Magic took the next step toward reshaping their roster Friday when they announced they have waived underachieving point guard Gilbert Arenas using the amnesty clause. Doing so accomplishes two things for the Magic:

• it rids them of an unproductive player prior to the start of training camp

• it removes Arenas' salary from the books for salary-cap and luxury tax purposes.

To be clear, Orlando must still pay Arenas the more than $63 million he's owed over the next three seasons. The upshot is easing further financial burden by having the albatross contract prevent it from making moves in the future.

Since arriving in Orlando via a trade with the Washington Wizards last Dec. 18, Arenas averaged 8 points in 21.8 minutes per game, shooting a dismal 34.4 percent from the field. His shot selection and decision making became huge issues for the Magic, which needed steadier play at backup point guard than Arenas was able to provide.

Under the amnesty rules, teams under the salary cap may enter a blind bid for Arenas' services. The team with the winning bid earns the right to sign him. If no team makes a bid, Arenas becomes an unrestricted free agent and may sign with whichever team he chooses except for Orlando; as the team that waived him via amnesty, the Magic cannot re-sign Arenas for one calendar year.

Even after removing Arenas' salary from the books, the Magic are still over the salary cap, so they do not yet have the space to sign a free agent to a deal more lucrative than the three-year, $9.4 million mid-level exception.

For more Magic coverage, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

Orlando Magic May File Tampering Charges Against New Jersey Nets, Say Reports

The Orlando Magic may file tampering charges against the New Jersey Nets, alleging improper contact with superstar center Dwight Howard, who's due to become a free agent in 2012, reports Sam Amick of Sports Illustrated. Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov is said to have met with Howard on Thursday night, the center's 26th birthday. ESPN's Chris Broussard adds more detail, saying the meeting took place in Miami and included Howard, Prokhorov, Nets general manager Billy King, and Howard's "business associates."

Additionally, Amick says, Orlando considered filing similar charges against the Houston Rockets for an alleged meeting between Howard and coach Kevin McHale. However, it decided against making those charges "due to lack of information," according to Amick.

David Aldridge of NBA.com first reported the news that the Magic were considering filing tampering charges with the league, though he did not name the teams in question.

For more Magic coverage, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

NBA Free Agency 2011: Orlando Magic Trade Brandon Bass To Boston Celtics For Glen Davis

The Orlando Magic have agreed to trade Brandon Bass to the Boston Celtics for Glen Davis, Yahoo! Sports reports. As Davis is an unrestricted free agent, he must first sign a contract with Boston before the deal can be completed, and free agents may not sign contracts until 2 PM on Friday. The deal, however, will go through once Davis signs.

As Alex Kennedy of HOOPSWORLD notes, Davis is rumored to be one of the free agents Magic center Dwight Howard asked Otis Smith, the team's President of Basketball Operations, to pursue during a recent face-to-face meeting.

Davis, a four-year veteran, owns career averages of 7.6 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. Despite his size--he's listed at 6-foot-9 and 289 pounds, explaining his "Big Baby" nickname--he's a good athlete who demonstrates excellent footwork, which helps him defend the low post successfully. His 44.9 percent career field goal shooting, however, leaves much to be desired.

Orlando signed Bass in the summer of 2009, hoping the burly power forward could add some toughness to its bench. Instead, he spent his first season in Orlando dissatisfied, buried on the depth chart behind Rashard Lewis and Ryan Anderson. He bounced back in a big way in 2010/11, however, becoming a full-time starter after Orlando dealt Rashard Lewis to the Washington Wizards and averaging 11.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game.

For more Magic coverage, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog. For the Boston point of view, please visit SB Nation Boston and CelticsBlog.

2011 NBA Free Agency: Mario Chalmers Agrees To Terms With Heat

Mario Chalmers is a restricted free agent for the Miami heat, and for a team that is so thin at the point guard position, he was a very important piece to bring back to the team. According to ESPN, Chalmers has agreed to terms with the Heat on Friday and is expected to return to the team for practice as early as this afternoon.

The final details were being worked out but Chalmers was expected to be at training camp Friday afternoon. Chalmers was a restricted free agent who had particular value to the Heat, who are thin at point guard. He will enter camp as the favorite to be the team's opening night starter. Chalmers averaged 6.8 points and 2.5 assists last season but proved to be a strong performer in the playoffs. He was at his best during the NBA Finals when he averaged 11.8 points.

Chalmers kind of let the cat out of the bag earlier this morning when he tweeted this.

Nets, Magic Reportedly 'Close' On Dwight Howard Trade

The New Jersey Nets and the Orlando Magic are reportedly "close" on a trade that would send Dwight Howard up the east coast to the Nets, according to our New Jersey blog Nets Daily. 

In an interview on ESPN Radio's Mike and Mike Friday morning, Chris Broussard said the Nets and Magic are already working on a trade that would send Dwight Howard to the Nets and that a deal is "very close to happening". ESPN later tweeted that Broussard believes the "Trade could take place today".

Broussard who broke news of Howard's intentions, said the deal, as he understands it, would be Howard and Hedo Turkoglu for Brook Lopez and two first round draft choices, presumably the Nets two picks in 2012: their own' first round pick and the Rockets lottery-protected pick obtained in the Terrence Williams trade a year ago.

The trade would immediate catapult the Nets into the contender conversation, and would probably mean extended contracts for both Deron Williams and Dwight Howard. As for the magic, it would be an invitation to start rebuilding in earnest.

NBA Free Agency: Dwight Howard Will Reportedly Ask For Trade To New Jersey Nets

After the Chris Paul to the Lakers trade fell through, Dwight Howard seems to be in much more of a hurry to get out of Orlando. He reportedly will ask for a trade to the New Jersey Nets, as soon as Friday, according to our Orlando Magic blog, Orlando Pinstriped Post.

Dwight Howard will soon ask the Orlando Magic to trade him to the New Jersey Nets, Chris Broussard of ESPN reports, citing "sources close to the situation." Though Howard has yet to formally request the trade, his representatives have told the Nets he prefers to play there, and Howard could inform Orlando of his plans as soon as Friday. There's even a chance he won't be at Amway Center for the Magic's first practice of training camp, according to Broussard's report.

The good news from this for the Magic, if there is any, is that the Nets have already reportedly offered an attractive package: Brook Lopez and a couple first round picks. For more on Lopez, here is OPP.

Lopez, a seven-footer, has averaged 17.4 points and 7.6 rebounds in his three-year career to go wth 50.4 percent shooting and 1.7 blocks. He's also an uncommonly good free throw shooter for a big man, sinking 80.1 percent of his career free throw attempts. However, he struggled in 2010/11, averaging just six rebounds in 35.2 minutes per game and shooting 49.2 percent from the floor despite his size and strength. Still, he's just 23, plays a position where talent is scarce, and clearly has his best years ahead of him. He might be the best the Magic could hope to get in return for Howard.

Losing Howard will certainly hurt, but Lopez is the exact type of player that superstar trades should be built around. He is talented, has shown a little bit in the league, but is still young enough that he has the potential to become even better. If the Magic decide to trade Howard, they could do far worse than this potential deal.

To join in the conversation about this move, visit Orlando Pinstriped Post. To get breaking updates on this story, follow SB Nation Tampa Bay on Twitter.

NBA Free Agency: Miami Heat To Potentially Sign Eddy Curry

The Miami Heat may be zeroing in on a future center. Eddy Curry has been invited to the Heat's training camp and is a target to sign when free agency opens up on Friday, according to Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun Sentinel.

Curry shares an agent with Heat forward LeBron James and worked out with the team several times last season in pursuit of a job. If Curry signs, he will join Heat centers Joel Anthony and Dexter Pittman.

Curry has battled weight issues in his ten-year playing career. He played the bulk of the 2010-2011 season with the New York Knicks before being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves as part of a three-team deal that sent Carmelo anthony to New York. Curry's contract was bought out by the Timberwolves in March before he was able to play in uniform for the Minnesota team.

For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

NBA Free Agency: Shane Battier Will Reportedly Sign With Miami Heat

Shane Battier had a lot of suitors this offseason, and has been spending the last few days widdling down his potential choices. But this morning, he announced, (sort of) via twitter that he will sign with the Miami Heat.

That tweet was later backed up by Inside Hoops.

Battier is a very good player and will be a nice backup for LeBron James, but you have to wonder why the Heat spent the little money they have for a backup at a position where he might play just a few minutes a game in games that count. I'm sure he will be reliable when the team wants to rest James during the shortened season, but one would imagine the Heat would have been better upgrading their two vulnerable positions, center and point guard.

NBA Free Agency 2011: Dwight Howard Reportedly Prefers To Stay With Magic

The Orlando Magic have been part of countless rumors about their future with Dwight Howard and whether or not they plan to trade their cornerstone big man. But according to a new report from Bill Ingram of HoopsWorld, via our very own Orlando Pinstriped Post, Dwight Howard's preference is to say with the Magic.

That said, the league’s best center by far still very much wants to be in Orlando, and he is willing to give them every opportunity to keep him. What that means to Dwight is that he wants the Magic to be contenders, and to that end Orlando has a short list of players they would like to add in an effort to return to contention. Atlanta’s Josh Smith, Philadelphia’s Andre Iguodala and Golden State’s Monta Ellis are on that list.

It remains to be seen if the Magic have enough pieces to bring any of those pieces in, but the Magic did hole talks before the lockout with the Hawks about Josh Smith. It will be interesting to see if the Magic can bring any of those players in, and if that would persuade Dwight to stay after all.

NBA Free Agency 2011: Lakers Hold 'Cursory' Talks With Magic About Dwight Howard

The Orlando Magic and Dwight Howard have been one of the main focuses in the NBA after the lockout ended, and the future of the Magic's franchise player has become a Source of constant chatter. The Lakers are one of the teams interested in his services and they might even have the pieces to get a trade done. Even though teams can't make deals until Friday, the Lakers have already had conversations with the Magic, although it doesn't seem like they were very productive.

Our pals at Orlando Pinstriped Post think that this shows the Magic is taking a smart approach to this incredibly difficult situation.

It's a strong indicator that Orlando, under President of Basketball Operations Otis Smith, intends to take a patient approach with regard to the future of its franchise cornerstone; until Howard makes clear his intentions--stay with Orlando long term, continue his career with another team, or stay with the Magic this season and test free agency in 2012--trading him would make no sense.

NBA Rumors: Lakers, Clippers Interested In Both Dwight Howard, Chris Paul

Ever since the lockout officially ended, the focus of a lot of NBA fans has shifted to the futures of Chris Paul and Dwight Howard; both free agents after this season and allegedly with an intent to play together wherever they may land. According to our Orlando Magic blog, Orlando Pinstripe Post, the Lakers and Clippers might be trying to get both of those players on the same team before the season even begins.

The Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers intend to aggressively pursue Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard and New Orleans Hornets point guard Chris Paul via trade, reports Chris Broussard of ESPN. The Lakers "hop[e] to pull off a pair of blockbuster moves that would rock the NBA," Broussard says, in acquiring its top center and top point guard, and have made everyone on their roster outside of Kobe Bryant available in trade discussions. "It is not clear whether they have spoken with Orlando," according to the report.

As they point out later, it doesn't seem like either of those teams have enough assets in the cabinet to get both of tose players. One, maybe, but it would be difficult to get both on the same team.

Dwight Howard Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers' Matt Barnes Says Howard Eyes L.A.

Los Angeles Lakers forward Matt Barnes says Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard and Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Baron Davis "want to be here" with the Lakers via free agency or trade. According to Andy Kamenetzky of ESPN Los Angeles, Barnes said "I've talked to both of those guys and they wanna be here."

Barnes and Howard have a relationship from Barnes' one season with the Magic in 2009/10. He most recently played alongside Howard in a celebrity basketball game Howard staged in November. Further, the two used to share an agent, Aaron Goodwin, and Howard helped broker Barnes' signing with Orlando in the summer of 2009, as Josh Robbins of the Orlando Sentinel reported at the time. Howard has since left Goodwin for Dan Fegan.

The Lakers are among the most frequently mentioned potential destinations for Howard.

For complete Magic coverage, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog. For the Lakers perspective, please visit SB Nation Los Angeles and Silver Screen and Roll, SB Nation's Lakers blog.

NBA Rumors: Orlando Magic Reportedly Show Interest In Jamal Crawford

The Orlando Magic are among the teams to express an interest in free-agent scoring guard Jamal Crawford, reports Jarrod Rudolph of RealGM. Crawford, formerly of the Atlanta Hawks, figures to be in high demand once free agency begins because he can score in bunches and man either guard position. The other teams to contact Crawford's agent, according to Rudolph, are the New Orleans Hornets, Indiana Pacers, and Chicago Bulls.

Crawford's coming off a season in which he averaged 14.2 points per game off the Atlanta Hawks' bench, a sharp decline from the 2009/10 season, when he took home Sixth Man of the Year honors for scoring 18 points per game in just 31.1 minutes.

The former Michigan Wolverine's stock-in-trade is scoring, and his slick handle allows him to break defenders down off the dribble in order to create his own shot. That's a skill Orlando, which relies heavily on jump-shooting, desperately needs to diversify its offense. Coach Stan Van Gundy said as much during Orlando's first-round playoff loss to Crawford's Hawks. Crawford averaged 20.5 points per game in that series.

However, given the wide-ranging interest in Crawford around the league, it's unlikely the Magic will be able to entice him to join them, as Orlando is deep in luxury-tax territory and can thus only offer him the mini mid-level exception, worth roughly $3 million annually. Crawford earned just over $10 million in 2010/11, according to ShamSports.com.

For complete Magic coverage, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

Miami Heat Trade Rumors: Team May Target Shane Battier In NBA Free Agency

With the NBA lockout now over, NBA teams are looking ahead to a shortened and hectic free agency signing period. It appears Pat Riley and the Miami Heat are looking to add Shane Battier to the mix. Via the SunSentinel.com:

Starting Monday, teams can begin making direct, face-to-face pitches to free agents, after being limited to contact with player agents since Wednesday. The post-lockout starting point for free-agent signings remains Friday, which is also when training camps will open in advance of the lockout-shortened 66-game schedule that for the Heat opens Dec. 25 on the road against the Dallas Mavericks.

According to Yahoo, the Heat's initial push will come toward Memphis Grizzlies free-agent forward Shane Battier, who essentially would take over the reserve-swingman role the Heat envisioned last season for injury-plagued Mike Miller. Battier, however, would provide a higher level of defensive deterrence on the wing, easing such burdens for James and Dwyane Wade.

The Grizzlies are expected to focus their efforts on re-signing center Marc Gasol, so Battier will most likely be available to the highest possible bidder, though the Heat only have their $5 million mid-level exception available.

For complete Magic coverage, please visit Orlando Pinstriped Post, SB Nation's Magic blog.

Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Orlando Magic Star Hot Topic In NBA Free Agency

Due to his pending free agency in the summer of 2012, Orlando Magic star Dwight Howard has become the subject of trade rumors.