NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers' Matt Barnes Says Dwight Howard Wants To Be in LA

Los Angeles Lakers forward Matt Barnes told reporters on Friday that he has talked with former Orlando Magic teammate Dwight Howard, and that the superstar center wants to be in Los Angeles.

Barnes also mentioned that former Los Angeles Clippers point guard Baron Davis, now of the Cleveland Cavaliers, also wants to join the Lakers.

The Lakers have been mentioned as a team that could make a real run at Howard in a blockbuster trade, with their young center Andrew Bynum being the centerpiece of any deal.

Here is the video for those of you who have not seen it yet:

Say what you want about Barnes' saying Howard wants to come to LA, but at least his source is the Magic star himself.

Why wouldn't you want to play for the Lakers? The Southern California weather is awesome, the city is amazing and the Lakers are the kings of the town.

The organization is also committed to winning and is an attractive team for free agents to consider signing with.

The Lakers' chances of getting Howard are not great, however, especially considering the talent they have to offer the Magic.

Bynum has not been a dominant offensive player throughout his career, and his many battles with knee injuries are a big concern to a team thinking about acquiring him.

Forwards Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol are good players, but not guys the Magic can build a promising future with. Both of them are past their primes.

The Lakers may be Howard's first choice, but LA and Orlando certainly have their work cut out for them to make a deal fair to both sides.