Dwight Howard Trade Speculation: Why New Jersey Nets Are the Best Fit for D12

After the Orlando Magic killed trade talks for their All-Star center, Dwight Howard, it's felt like an eternity for New Jersey Nets' fans waiting from that point until the trade deadline which is rapidly approaching.

Now that the All-Star break is finally over, the D12 sweepstakes is ready to heat up again and the Nets are still the preferred destination for Howard.

And why not? There are many positives in favor of a move to New Jersey and ultimately, Brooklyn.

Chance to Win

It's safe to say that after all his years with the Magic, Howard has never played with another star the likes of Deron Williams.

With Williams and Howard, New Jersey would instantly have the best point guard and center combination in the NBA. They will be the two most important pieces the Nets need in building a championship contender.

Past Howard and Williams' contracts, the Nets will take the collateral damage of Hedo Turkoglu's contract but can still put the roster together using exceptions and signing minimum-salary players.

But as their crosstown rivals have proven, you can fill out your roster with success when you offer a great place to play and win.

Global Branding

As if New York wasn't enough of a global branding jackpot in itself, Howard will have rapper Jay-Z and Russian billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov to help him expand the D12 name worldwide.

This means tons of new business opportunities coming from all angles and countries that will stuff Howard's pockets full of extra cash that he wouldn't be getting otherwise playing for the Magic.

If you think money outside of his contract isn't important, maybe this article from Sports Illustrated's Sam Amick will change your mind. It isn't just basketball driving Howard to Brooklyn, it's the business aspect and according to him, New York is the best place for that.

Legacy

As soon as Howard steps foot onto a New York basketball court on the home team, he will be one of the greatest centers ever to play in the greatest city in the world.

Taking it to a smaller level, he will instantly be the greatest big man in Nets' history, New Jersey or Brooklyn. He doesn't have to follow in the footsteps of a multiple championship-winning center like Shaquille O'Neal.

All it will take in Brooklyn will be one championship. That's it. One championship and he'll be considered the greatest big man in New York basketball history and the savior of the Nets.

Not exactly the loftiest of expectations.