Following that declaration, Fox Sports' Sam Amico reported that trade negotiations between the Magic and other teams are heating up:
That could mean again reaching out to the Los Angeles Lakers, a destination which Howard is said to be open. It could also mean possibly trying to involve a third team with the assets and salary-cap room to help facilitate a deal, such as Cleveland or Houston.
Whether it be through a third team or a direct trade, the Los Angeles Lakers' chances of acquire the three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year are increased with this news.
At the very least, those chances aren't decreased.
According to Amico's report, the Magic backed off of trade talks in order to concentrate on finding a new coach for the team, as well as figuring out if Howard had changed his mind at all.
The Magic have an answer to both of those questions. Jacques Vaughn was hired by general manager Rob Hennigan (via ESPN). That shouldn't come as a surprise, as Hennigan comes from a pedigree of San Antonio Spurs personnel and Vaughn was most recently an assistant coach for the team.
Now that there aren't any more uncertainties revolving around Howard and the organization (Howard wants out. A coach has been found.), the front office can focus on swinging a trade to end this circus act.
Mitch Kupchak and the Lakers are likely to have to send Andrew Bynum to another team if they are to acquire Howard. As of now, the Lakers are the best trade partner that the Magic are going to find if they wish to unload their disenchanted star before the season begins.
The Brooklyn Nets lost their trade flexibility by signing Brook Lopez to a max contract. Lope...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
