NBA Trade Rumors: Orlando Magic Open to Trading Star Dwight Howard

It's funny how teams change their tune when they are faced with the inevitable. The Orlando Magic are much more open to life without Dwight Howard, and thank god for that. 

The Magic drew a line in the sand last year when they vowed they were not about to trade Howard. It's a good thing that line was drawn in sand and not something permanent. 

Josh Robbins of The Orlando Sentinel sat down with Magic GM Otis Smith recently. That is when Smith delved into the issues in keeping Howard. What we learned is that the Magic are open to trading their star center, and that is good news for Magic fans as well as for fans of the team he will play for next. Said Smith:

"

I think you have to look at everything. I don't think you can take anything out of consideration. I think, one, you have to talk to your player first. We have to figure out where his head is, not where everyone thinks his head is, and just more figure out where he wants to be. And then you have to make the best decision of what's in the best interests of the franchise. That's how I've always went about it: to make the best decision that's in the best interests of the Orlando Magic.

"

When I say Magic fans should be happy, I don't mean life without Howard would be any better than with him. Simply, you can't let that kind of talent leave without getting something in return. 

It seems the Magic have finally arrived at the doorstep of Howard's departure and are ready to talk. They will of course try to keep him but will deal him for just about anything they can get to get a return on a legend. 

The only thing they will ask of Howard is an open answer to the question of, "Do you want to stay?" That discussion should happen as soon as possible as the rumor mill continues to spin at a frantic pace. 

Deals that will take place are going to get consummated shortly as the offseason has been sliced short due to the lockout. 

I would assume we will know shortly if Howard is willing to stay in Orlando. If Smith has the slightest bit of confidence he can keep Howard, he will shut the door on all of these delightful rumors. 

As it stands, the Magic are taking offers, if you have any.