Relieved Dwight Howard happy to be a Los Angeles Laker – NBA Update
The Dwight Howard saga finally came to an end after the Los Angeles Lakers managed to work out a trade with Orlando Magic on Friday.
It took four teams, 11 players and five future draft picks before Howard could start a new beginning with the Lakers. A lot of work has been done to make the deal possible, and Howard, who has been responsible for much of the traumatic
anticipation regarding his future, is just happy to be in Hollywood.
"It's kind of unreal," Howard said. "It finally happened. It's here. Just walking around upstairs and driving here ... I'm really a part of the Lakers. It hasn't really hit me yet. I'm just happy to be here and I'm going to make
the best out of it."
As part of the trade, Lakers will part ways with centre Andrew Bynum while Magic send Jason Richardson to the Philadelphia 76ers, who ship Andre Iguodala to the Denver Nuggets. Bynum will be a part of the Sixers.
On the other hand, Magic receive Arron Afflalo and Al Harrington from Denver, Moe Harkless and Nikola Vucevic from Philadelphia, and Josh McRoberts along with Christian Eyenga from the Lakers. They will also receive a three secured
first round picks, one from each franchise.
Howard spent 8 years in Orlando, and took them to the NBA finals once, only to be beaten by the Lakers. Over the years, due to the lack of championships and absence of a future vision in the Orlando management, Howard grew frustrated
and this eventually led to the big man having an adamant desire to leave for good.
Even though he has not committed to a long term future with the Lakers as he looks to consider his options after next season, but the prospect of winning NBA Championships is bound to keep D-12 in the tinsel town. For now he is
just happy at getting a new start in his career.
"This has been a tough summer but it's finally over," Howard said. "I'm looking forward to starting fresh here today and making history here for myself and the organization. Thank you for putting up with me during this time. It's
going to be better."
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