NBA Trade Rumors: Stephen Curry's Injury Kills Any Dwight Howard Deals

The Warriors' hopes of decency and a possible trade for Dwight Howard all hinge on Stephen Curry's gimpy ankle. Rumors have circulated that the Warriors have shown some interest in renting Howard in hopes that they can win him over, even without a guarantee that he'll sign an extension.

It is almost certain that Stephen Curry would have to be a part of any deal that would bring Howard to Oakland. The Magic surely won't even consider a deal like that, with Curry's ankle injuries feared to be chronic.

Orlando has already gone through that with Grant Hill in 2000. Hill was signed by Orlando, only to have his time with the Magic marred by a chronic ankle injury.

The ankle injury also threatens the Warriors as the team stands now. Monta Ellis is doing everything he can, averaging 23 points per game, but the team just isn't nearly as effective without Curry at the point.

Without Curry, the Warriors are almost certainly headed for the lottery again. Mark Jackson cannot effectively implement his new strategies and approach without his point guard in place.

Ellis' name has also been mentioned in trade talks, but he is not considered as valuable on the market as Curry. If they part with Ellis, depending on what they got in return, the team would be even more challenged offensively.

Needless to say, much is hinging on the stability of Curry's surgically repaired ankle.