Lakers, Magic, Rockets Discussing Trade Involving Dwight Howard and Andrew Bynum

Until Dwight Howard is finally shipped away from Orlando, you can expect to hear of a new trade rumor involving the big fella approximately every two hours or so (if not more frequently.) Here’s the latest bit of gossip, via Hoopsworld: “… there have been preliminary discussions between the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers and Houston Rockets that would involve sending Andrew Bynum to the Rockets, Howard to the Lakers and a number of first-round picks, prospects and significant cap relief to the Magic. The Magic are not necessarily in love with the idea of giving either Bynum or Brook Lopez a sizable, long-term commitment as they go through a major roster overhaul. Draft picks and prospects, a la the Denver Nuggets’ return on Carmelo Anthony, is said to be more appealing to Orlando. The Rockets have no assurance from Howard that he’d re-sign there and while they might be willing to take that risk, Bynum has privately expressed a willingness to be in Houston long-term. Houston has a tremendous haul of young, cheap players to offer as well as multiple draft picks. They also have a passing interest in Ramon Sessions, as the Lakers do in Courtney Lee. L.A. has some confidence that Howard would eventually re-sign with the Lakers but a major qualm is, to date, Howard has resisted such a move. Additionally, Los Angeles wants to make sure Howard’s back is truly healthy. […] Just as the Brooklyn conversation lingered and took many unexpected turns, there’s nothing said to be imminent between the Lakers, Rockets and Magic. However, it is one of many possible paths as the Magic try to step into their future post-Howard.”