NBA Update: Dwight Howard Has Been Traded To The Los Angeles Lakers
After what has become the most drawn out, free-agent circus act I’ve seen since LeBron James ran his 60 minute special on ESPN dubbed “the decision.” It’s all over with folks. It’s official. Dwight Howard has been traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. The trade involves 4 teams, 7 total players, and 3 first-round draft picks. Multiple sources have confirmed the trade with ESPN on Thursday night. While it’s official, the league office still needs to process this blockbuster deal. They have scheduled to do so Friday morning.
A source with direct knowledge of the situation, told ESPN.com’s Marc Stein the Lakers will acquire Dwight Howard, the Denver Nuggets will recieve Andre Iguodala, the Philadelphia 76ers will receive Jason Richardson and Andrew Bynum. The Orlando Magic received a boatload in return for the former #1 pick, getting Arron Afflalo, Al Harrington, Nikola Vucevic, and three protected future first-round picks from each team. (Update: Magic will also recieve 76ers draft pick, Moe Harkless)
Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops and the league processes the trade tomorrow morning. This is one of the biggest trades in the history of the NBA, and it will certainly shake up the look of the league. Eastern Conference players going West, vice versa, key big men changing teams, etc….If Dwight Howard hasn’t already given us enough to write and read about, he just loaded us up with some more ammo.
** Update **
This blockbuster trade that will forever change the landscape of the NBA, has been approved according to league sources. The trade officially involves 4 teams, 8 players, and 3 draft picks.
ESPN source says Dwight will definitely NOT be doing extension with Lakers. Will test drive Lakerland for season and go to free agency in July 2013.
If L.A. does not work out for Dwight, says source briefed on his thinking, he knows “Dallas will be there for him.” Mavs will have cap space.
So as you can see….the Dwightmare is far from over. Stay Tuned.
Michael J. Igyarto is a featured columnist at Rant Sports
Follow Michael on twitter: @windycityiggy
