Report: Despite Orlando Shakeup, Dwight Howard Still 'Desperately' Wants Trade
NEW YORK (WFAN) -- It seems the Dwight Howard drama isn't over in Orlando. You know what that means? Trade speculation involving the Brooklyn Nets is about to start all over again.
The departures of Magic coach Stan Van Gundy and general manager Otis Smith on Monday had many thinking Howard would finally be happy -- at least for awhile -- in Florida.
But not so fast.
The 26-year-old still "desperately wants to be traded prior to the start of next season," NBA insider Chris Sheridan of SheridanHoops.com reported Tuesday, citing a source close to Howard.
The Nets were closely linked to Howard in the aftermath of his trade request prior to this season. Brooklyn star Deron Williams, who is expected to opt out of his deal, wasn't shy at the time about his desire to play with the big man.
The source told Sheridan that the Nets are still in front, though it won't be a "one-horse race." The Mavericks and Knicks are also on Howard's list, Sheridan reported.
Howard's contract will expire at the end of next season, and Magic CEO Alex Martins has said the club won't put up with a contentious repeat of 2011-12, when the All-Star flip-flopped before finally opting in for the final year.
"I think the decision is on Dwight now," Martins said Monday. "Dwight needs to decide where his future lies."
Nets fans, are you ready for some more Dwight drama? Sound off below...
