It's no surprise to anyone that the Lakers will be one of the primary suitors in a possible trade for Howard, and a person with knowledge of the team's strategy told CBSSports.com that executive Jim Buss finally has dropped his opposition to trading center Andrew Bynum "for the right deal." That's code for "a deal for Dwight Howard," and it's clear from those familiar with Howard's thinking that he'd like to join the Lakers. Bynum may or may not be on the Magic's list of suitable replacements for Howard in a potential deal that also would have to include young players on rookie contracts and draft picks.For those of you who do not know by now, Jim buss will be taking on the role as executive president and chief executive officer of the Los Angeles Lakers. Jerry Buss previously held that position with the organization. But the power is shifting now from Jerry to Jim. Jim Buss, who considers Laker's center Andrew Bynum his own personal project, has been reportedly open to trade the 7'0 center. Jim Buss was the guy who drafted Bynum in the 2005 NBA Draft (10th overall). Since then, he has been adamantly against trading Bynum. But now, reports indicate that he is willing to trade him if the offer is "right". And by "right", that means if only they can acquire all-star center Dwight Howard from the Orlando Magic. The rumor of Dwight Howard going to the Lakers has circulated throughout the media ever since the Laker's last season post-season embarrassment and collapse. Dwight, who can opt out of his contract and test free agency, has not directly indicated that he wants to join the Lakers. When asked if there was anyone who can play with, Dwight responded by saying Kobe Bryant.
Dwight loves Hollywood and his fiance is pursuing a singing career here in Los Angeles. The question now lies on the the Orlando Magic front office. Do you keep Dwight and play it throughout the season even with the risk of him leaving for nothing, or do you deal him and receive compensation to enter rebuilding mode. ESPN's Marc Stein reported on Twitter that a growing number of execs starting to believe that Magic will indeed give strong consideration to doing Dwight deal before season starts. Who knows, we just have to wait and see. He may be dealt before the season, before the trade deadline, or they just may not deal him and play the him through the season. I guess we just may have to play the waiting game and see.
