There have been 981- not really but REALLY – Dwight Howard trade scenarios about where the all-star center would end up. But this time, it looks as it’s finally happening and DH will become a Los Angeles Laker!
Per ESPN, Yahoo and at this point everybody else with a source, a blockbuster four-team trade between the Lakers, Sixers, Magic and Nuggets is just waiting for league approval. The Lakers will receive Howard, the Denver Nuggets will acquire Andre Iguodala, the 76ers will receive Andrew Bynum and Jason Richardson, and the Magic will get Arron Afflalo, Al Harrington, Nikola Vucevicand and one protected future first-round pick from each of the three teams.
If that’s not enough, the Magic will be getting other pieces, including 76ers No. 1 draft pick Moe Harkless. So the Lakers get their center WITHOUT losing Pau Gasol, that’s huge and one of those things fans of other teams will undoubtedly be scratching their heads over.
The Sixers are doing their own victory dance. After sneaking into the second round of the playoffs because of injury woes that overtook the east, they now have a legit big with championship pedigree. Lots of young shooters to surround him with and some cap room for next year.
The Magic, they are on operation rebuild. All draft picks, youth and future cap space. Let’s see what Rob Hennigan- the new GM – can do with that.
Barring any unforeseen circumstances, you have to anticipate most are thinking a Lakers-Heat finals. With the dream match up of Kobe vs. LeBron. But I’m sure the reigning Western Conference champion, OKC Thunder have a few thoughts about that.
My only question, how Dwight’s back? Coming off of back surgery, developing chemistry with his new team and learning whatever offensive scheme Brown Kobe decides to run this season. If the Lakers are in fact moving ahead with the Princeton offense, where does that leave Howard? A good passing center is an important element for that to work out but, one season enough of a sample to make a long term decision next summer?
Meanwhile, Kobe and Andre Igudola are in London going for Gold and watching the trade headlines. Wonder what THAT conversation is like. LeBron is like Oh they’re coming for us, KD and Russ too!
I CAN’T WAIT for the NBA season to start.