Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Why Magic Must Deal Superman Before Deadline

Dwight Howard openly stated yesterday to the media that he would like to remain in Orlando for the remainder of the season, but the Magic would be foolish not to deal their prized center at the deadline.

While Howard stated that he wanted to remain with the team this season, he would not confirm nor deny that he would remain with the team long-term. As it stands, he will not agree to a multi-year extension with the Magic.

In fact, Howard put Orlando in more turmoil by indicating it would be a gamble if the team were keep Howard in place. Here’s what Howard told ESPN.

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"We've been talking, like I said, for a while," Howard said after leading the Magic to a 104-98 overtime home victory against the Miami Heat. "I told them I want to finish this season out and give our team, give our fans some hope for the future. But I feel they have to roll the dice. It might be tough, but I feel we've got a great opportunity. But they've got to roll it."

 

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Howard can’t just toy with the franchise like that. It’s time for the Magic to send him packing and get whatever they can in return. Even if Howard were to sign a long-term extension, who’s to say that Orlando wouldn’t have to go through this charade again? If the Magic don’t make the leap to title contention as soon as possible, Howard will most certainly be just as disgruntled (if not more) as he is currently.

Howard's decision (or indecision) is a sign of immaturity. The Magic can’t sit around and wait for the 26-year-old Howard to make up his mind on what he wants to do with his future. The franchise needs to act now and do whats best for them long-term.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like Howard will be in the plans.