Lakers Trade Rumors: L.A. Shouldn't Get Involved in Dwight Howard Bidding War

Yes, believe it or not, the Dwight Howard saga is still going on. And the Los Angeles Lakers, who have been linked to the All-Star center frequently over the past few months, must avoid a bidding war that is apparently developing.

The price tag for Howard was already going to be enormous because of his all-around ability, but things are only to get more costly as the deadline approaches. CBS Sports' Ken Berger reports the Orlando Magic's demands are similar to last year's Carmelo Anthony blockbuster:

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If the Magic decide to trade Howard, they have “not closed any doors” on potential suitors, said a person familiar with the organization’s strategy. Teams that are on and off Howard’s list of preferred destinations – the Nets, Mavericks and Lakers – will be considered, and may the highest bidder win, sources said.

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Prior to Berger's report, there was at least some hope Orlando would lower the bar at least a little bit before March 15 since Howard could walk away at season's end. Instead, it looks like they are willing to take that risk unless a massive offer comes along.

That means any interest the Lakers still had in completing a deal should evaporate. There's no reason they should go overboard just to land Howard when post play isn't even a major area of concern at this point.

If Los Angeles was going to overpay for anything, it should be a point guard. There isn't one of the same level as Howard available, though, since it appears the speculation floating above Rajon Rondo's head recently doesn't have much merit.

While it's not a surprise to see fans craving some type of deal to shake up a stagnant roster, the Lakers have to remain cautious about going too far. As the Knicks have found out, trading too many key pieces for one superstar doesn't guarantee anything.

The Lakers would have to sacrifice either Andrew Bynum or Pau Gasol, if not both, and potentially more pieces depending on how high the bidding went to get Howard.

When you consider Derek Fisher would probably still be running the point when the dust settled, it just doesn't add up to a smart move for Los Angeles. The front office would be better off waiting to see what happens with Howard in the offseason.

As for now, the Lakers should continue to ask around about point guards. Names like Ramon Sessions and Raymond Felton have been mentioned as possible targets. Although they aren't superstars like Howard, they would fill the team's biggest need at a significantly smaller price.

Howard is a tremendous player, but it's a case where walking away before making a move the team will regret in the future is the smart decision.