Anthony Davis, the future first pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, is not even in the league yet and he is already the subject of trade rumors involving the Orlando Magic and disgruntled Dwight Howard. According to a report from Yahoo Sports on Wednesday morning, the Brooklyn Nets would be willing to flip the first pick in the draft, should they end up with it after the lottery, in exchange for Howard.
For a better understanding of the rationale behind the move, factor in the impending departure of All-Star Deron Williams. Barring changes, Williams is unlikely to sign an extension with the Nets. That has fed the team's reported willingness to deal the first pick for the chance to keep Williams and pair him with Howard, just in time for the team to open its new Brooklyn arena for the 2012-2013 season.
Orlando seems willing to deal Howard, according to recent reports, rather than deal with another sideshow. First, they need to get a new general manager in place after dumping Otis Smith this month.
The Nets will also have to draw the winning ticket in Wednesday's NBA draft lottery. Currently, the odds for that happening are a scant seven and a half percent.
The NBA draft lottery takes place at 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday.
To stay up to date with all the Dwight Howard trade rumors, head to Orlando Pinstriped Post.