A new day brings a new twist in the Dwightmare saga
Dwight Howard has been looking to part ways with Orlando Magic for quite some time now and considering that no move has yet been possible; the saga does not seem to be ending any time soon.
The three times defensive player of the year wanted to leave Orlando last year and look for other options, but against the turn of events, he decided to sign a contract extension for one more season back in March. He however instantly
demanded a trade.
Nearly four months later, the Magic management find themselves in exactly the same situation as last year.
After the re-signing of Brook Lopez, Howard’s desire to join Brooklyn Nets is out of the question, at least for a few months. There had also been speculation that Howard may be a part of a trade deal which will see him adorn the
Los Angeles Lakers colours but with his hesitancy to sign an extension, the Lakers might not take that chance. Hosuton Rockets were also a party in the chase, but their interest also seems to have waned.
The bottom line is that the trade is not happening any time soon, and capitalizing on the situation, the Magic are now launching another effort to retain their prized centre. They were able to persuade Howard to remain in Orlando
last season and this time around, after numerous trade attempts have failed, they are trying to do the same.
Last month, some reports emerged that new general manager Rob Hennigan tried to convince the 6 times All-Star to stay put but had failed. But according to recent speculation, Hennigan is not resting easy and is travelling to Los
Angeles along with his staff in the next few days to meet Howard and his agent.
If the new Magic GM succeeds in impressing the big man with his future course of action, there is a bleak possibility that Howard might stay.
All in all, the Magic have tried to trade Howard, but given their reportedly steep demands, teams like the Nets, Lakers and the Houston Rockets have backed off. This only means that Howard will start the season in Magic colours.
One big question mark looming over the whole situation is the relationship between Howard and the Magic fans. Even if the Magic management is able to convince D-12 in staying, will he be able to go back to the reputation, the way
it was at the start of his career?
The logical answer is a ‘no’.
But, off-course, this is the ‘Dwightmare’ saga and things can change pretty quickly here.
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