+Paul in NY and how could u forget McGrady to Chicago?! anyways, same as it ever is in the east, top top heavy
The Magic could be big winners in this whole situation with Dwight. If they can trade Hedo and Howard, and waive Gilbert Arenas; I think they're in a good position to start over. They still have other pieces they can use a trade bait such as Bass. Their GM has to start considering this option since they're way over the cap currently, and they're not contenders period. And for those that are stating Morey has a better offer, you guys are high.
I think the Nets have a legit chance at Howard because of what they can offer. If he's traded to the Lakers, it would be because he won't re-sign anywhere else.
I can't see Orlando taking a package from the Lakers. The Lakers do not have anything remotely close to offer with Orlando's cap situation. If you're trading Howard, you're rebuilding period. Sure Gasol and Bynum are solid pieces, but those guys aren't franchise players. Bynum would be a solid piece to build a team around, but can you trust him staying healthy? His track record illustrates that he can't stay healthy. Orlando has all the power in this situation.
People seem to be forgetting that Orlando probably feels hexed by big men... They all have wanted to leave... The franchise probably dont even want Bynum or Lopez...They probably want to build around a guard such as Paul/Rondo/Westbrook... The Rockets should dangle Lowry and draftpicks... Bet they jump at it... gotta think outside the box sometimes
lil bit of both...U aint know???.... Haven't I verbally assaulted you before?... U bring a gun this time?..
Yes. I can see it now... Spoiler I hope Dwight either goes to the Nets or to the Bulls. Let's have as many superstars go to the East as possible, so our team of role players can compete in the West.
The Stepien rule only applies to future picks. RealGM says they still have their own picks for 2012 and 2013, so they can trade either one (but not both) right now. They can also trade Houston's pick. But, how enticing can those picks really be? The Houston pick is lotto protected in 2012. And the NJ pick won't be all that great if it's position is determined by a team with Deron Williams and Dwight Howard playing in the East. Does Orlando want to sell the farm for Lopez and 2 non-lotto picks? That sounds pretty meager. Of what the Lakers have, only Gasol is interesting. Bynum is too injured and Odom is too old. If they could pair another real asset with Gasol, I think it could be a good deal. Unfortunately, they don't have anything else. Noah is about as interesting as Gasol and Lopez -- a real asset, but not close to what Howard is worth. But, Chicago does have other stuff to offer too, so maybe. Houston doesn't have anything to offer Orlando. That's why the strategy seems to be to wait for the Howard free agency instead. Again, why is it we're not tanking?
