NBA Trade Rumors: Would Miami Heat Consider Trading LeBron for Dwight Howard?

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LeBron James helped the new-look Miami Heat make the NBA Finals after signing their with Chrish Bosh in the summer of 2010. While it most certainly won’t happen, it could make sense for him to make another move this summer.

LeBron would be a great fit in Orlando, and subsequently, disgruntled center Dwight Howard would be a match made in heaven for Miami. The two max contract players could be swapped for one another and make both Florida teams much better.

The Orlando Magic have been struggling to surround their 6-foot-11 All-Star center with talented players. They made a title run in 2009 after defeating LeBron’s Cavs, but have not made a deep playoff push since.

Howard is a free agent in the summer of 2012 and will certainly leave the team for greener pastures if the team does not markedly improve. He has been rumored to want to follow Shaq’s footsteps and leave the Magic for the Los Angeles Lakers. The Magic would love to get something tangible in return for him instead of just letting him walk away.

The Miami Heat made the NBA Finals this past season but mightily struggled on defense against the Dallas Mavericks. They have no legitimately half-decent center on the roster and Howard would be perfect. He helps out the lankier and more offensive minded Chris Bosh down low and would be a great 2^nd/3^rd option when his name is called.

By swapping LeBron and Howard, the Magic would get arguably the best player in the league in return and the Heat would add the legitimate presence in the middle they need to win the championship.

The Heat want to hold onto their prized signing and will most likely not consider any offers for James. They are going to hold out for a cheap veteran to become available and sign him cheap to fill their center spot. With a ton of free agents set to come off the books this summer, the Heat should be able to find someone for a decent price. 

-Alex Kay

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