Dwight Howard: Orlando Magic Smart to Wait on Dealing Superstar Center

Dwight Howard might be looking for the fastest way out of Orlando, but the Magic don't appear ready to play those games with their superstar center, nor should they be. 

According to Chris Broussard of ESPN.com, Orlando's front office might be rethinking any decision to move Howard right now.

"

An executive who has had discussions with the Magic regarding Howard said Orlando only will trade the star center in a deal that is great for the franchise. The executive said this has been Orlando's stance for the past "week or so."

Another executive who has talked with Orlando said he thinks the Magic may start the season with Howard and wait until the February trade deadline to move him. 

"

Broussard does note that there could be some level of posturing involved with the Magic's decision-makers, which is to be expected. 

For the Magic, the idea that they would settle for any deal that doesn't benefit the franchise long-term was foolish. Looking at some of the proposed deals for Howard, specifically the one reported by Alex Kennedy of Hoopsworld, there was a lot to be desired from Orlando's perspective. 

"

Three-team deal may send Dwight Howard to Lakers, Andrew Bynum to Cavs and picks/prospects/cap relief to Magic. Still trying to get details.

— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) July 14, 2012"

For the Lakers and Cavaliers, that looks great. But for a team giving up the face of its franchise, it must do everything it can to get fair and equal value, or at least close to it, in order to make sure the future is secure. 

Howard has brought all of this on himself. He could have accepted the situation in Orlando for what it is, played it out quietly and let the front office do what it has to do when the time is right. 

New general manager Rob Hennigan comes from a situation in Oklahoma City that was as good as any in the NBA at building around young talent and draft picks. He is not going to rush into any deal just to make a disgruntled player happy. 

With Howard, the Magic are in an enviable position. If they start the season hot, Howard could realize that this is the place for him to be and re-sign, though that appears highly unlikely. If things aren't working out during the season, other teams will have a much better grasp on where they are and be willing to offer more to make a deal happen. 

Putting a Howard deal on hold was the smartest move the Magic could make, even if all the drama surrounding him gets more annoying by the day. 

Follow @adamwells1985