Golden State Warriors: Recapping the Latest Buzz

DWIGHT HOWARD 

Superman Dwight Howard could take flight at any moment, and not just for a thunderous alley-oop. The superstar center has long been linked to trade rumors.

The latest talk in the league involves the Golden State Warriors again. According to Chris Broussard, the Magic have spoken to the Warriors in an attempt to acquire Monta Ellis, a player Howard has said that he’d like to play with.

The two would make an excellent pairing. Ellis is one of the best in the league at penetrating the lane and dishing the ball. His 5.8 assists per game are the highest amongst shooting guards.

Unfortunately for the Magic, this deal just won’t happen. Aside from Howard, the team does not have assets the Warriors desire—a center. In fact, the Warriors are still intent on acquiring Howard.

The Magic center has no intention of resigning with the Warriors if traded to Oakland. Undeterred, the Warriors are willing to give up multiple assets for a half-season rental of Howard.

If Dwight is dealt to Golden State, he’ll have to turn down $25 million to leave for another team.

The CBA allows the player’s current team to offer a max five-year, $100 million contract. Opposing teams can only offer a four-year, $74.3 million deal.

Warrior officials are banking on a rabid fanbase and untapped Silicon Valley market in persuading Howard to resign, assuming he does end up with Golden State.

Unfortunately for the Warriors, this deal just won’t happen. Both teams want Howard and Ellis together.

STEPHEN CURRY INJURY UPDATE

Stephen Curry will sit his third-straight game after suffering a tendon injury in his right foot just before the All-Star break. While he suited up against the Atlanta Hawks, Curry's three seconds of court time were merely to play as decoy in one of the final plays of the game.

According to Rusty Simmons, the Warriors will trot out a starting lineup of Ellis, Dorell Wright, Dominic McGuire, David Lee and Andris Biedrins.

McGuire recorded 15 rebounds and zero points in his start against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday. His defensive energy and work on the glass led the Warriors to an ugly, grind-it-out victory and has earned another start tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers.

The 76ers have the best defense in the league, allowing only 87.1 points per game and limiting opponents to 41.5 percent shooting.

With McGuire replacing Curry in the starting lineup, expect another grind of a game. If the Warriors want any chance to win, they’ll need another strong defensive effort.