NBA Trade Rumors: Will Chris Paul Spurn New York Knicks for Orlando Magic?

New Orleans Hornets star point guard Chris Paul was supposed to be destined for the New York Knicks.

But some recent news has stirred up the pot.

One of Dwight Howard's closest confidants reportedly told Bright House Sports Network on Saturday that Howard wanted to stay in Orlando with the Magic, and that has some wondering if Paul could join him.

Howard is rumored to be waiting for Magic President Otis Smith to "hit a home run" and acquire another superstar via trade.

It's pretty clear by now that Paul isn't interested in playing in New Orleans anymore, and he hits the free-agency market after this season.

That means the Hornets are likely looking to trade him for something before they lose him and get nothing in return.

The Knicks have appeared to be the most likely destination lately, with freed up cap space and a friend of Paul's in Carmelo Anthony awaiting his arrival.

But imagine what Paul could do alongside Howard. That would place one of the best point guards in the league next to the best center hands down.

Plus, the Magic do have some trade pieces that the Hornets could be interested in.

Right now, it still appears that the Magic are on the outside looking in on the Chris Paul Sweepstakes, but that doesn't mean Paul is out of the picture.

Remember, Paul is also good friends with Howard.

One thing's for sure: things just got a lot more interesting and perhaps the Knicks aren't the shoo-in we all thought they were.