NBA Rumors: Orlando Magic Must End Drama and Trade Dwight Howard in Offseason

Depending on the source, the Orlando Magic may or may not trade All-Star center Dwight Howard before the 2012-13 season begins.

However, no matter who you believe in this situation, the Magic must put an end to the drama and deal Howard before the NBA draft.

Chris Sheridan of Sheridan Hoops got the Howard trade rumors party started earlier this week when he reported that, despite the firing of head coach Stan Van Gundy, Howard still desperately wanted out of Orlando before next season.

Sheridan then came back on Thursday and reported that the Magic were indeed ready to part ways with their franchise center.

But according RealGM.com, the Magic aren't committed to trading Howard and are still looking to try to sign him to an extension.

Enough is enough.

The Magic have to put an end to this saga and do so as soon as the season ends.

They simply can't allow Howard to string them along any further and risk losing him after the 2013 season.

It's clear he doesn't want to be in an Orlando uniform any longer, and the last thing the Magic need right now is a bigger distraction than the one he created this season.

At some point, this has to end.

Eventually, the 18.4 points and 13.0 rebounds Howard has averaged throughout his career just won't be worth the baggage and immaturity any longer.

The Magic have to move on and get the best deal possible for Howard and do it soon.

He's worn out his welcome in Orlando and a fresh start may be the best thing for all parties involved.

The games have to stop and stop now. The only way to do that is by telling Howard to pack his bags.