Dwight Howard Trade Rumors: Magic Must Rid Themselves of Their Dwightmare

At some point, Dwight Howard's scary combination of size, athleticism, and production is just not worth it anymore. 

And with the most recent report, which comes from Chris Sheridan at sheridanhoops.com, it appears we've finally hit that line:

"

Dwight Howard wants out of Orlando, the events of today notwithstanding, a source close to Howard tells SheridanHoops.com…

But in fact, the source said, Howard wants out of Orlando more than he ever did before in order to start a new chapter of his career. And it is well-known throughout the league that the Magic do not want to endure another soap opera season like the one they just experienced.

"

And it continues. 

So, to recap, for a year or two (or seven, which is what it seems like) there was speculation regarding Howard about whether or not he would opt in for the final year on his contract with the Magic.

Finally, in March, Howard made it official that he would stay for the 2012-13 season. We were then graced with Howard-less press for a glorious 19 days (and it was glorious, indeed), and then this happened:

Assuming Van Gundy was telling the truth in that Howard wanted him fired, Dwight finally got his wish yesterday when Van Gundy and Otis Smith were canned.

Which brings us back to present time. Despite Howard getting his wish, he still wants out of Orlando. I think, at this point, Magic fans just have to realize Dwight is never going to be quiet, and he's never going to be satisfied. 

While it may be true that 20.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.1 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game is impossible to duplicate, the baggage and ridiculousness Howard brings with him make it not worth it.

With one year left on his contract, it's likely the Magic, once they get a GM, will have to ship Howard to a team he's willing to sign an extension with. That limits options, but as long as they can get some solid young pieces and also get rid of Hedo Turkoglu's contract, it would be worth it.

It's clear Dwight is wearing out his welcome in Orlando, and it's going to be real tough to continue to build a franchise around him. 

The best way for the Magic to move on is to simply trade their Dwightmare and get started on rebuilding the franchise. It's unfortunate to look at things that way, but it's better than another season full of headaches ending with Howard leaving for Brooklyn for nothing in return. 

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