NBA Rumors: Deron Williams Re-Signing with Nets Increases Odds for Dwight Howard

Much has been made lately of what exactly will happen with Dwight Howard and Chris Paul, but perhaps the forgotten man among the possible free-agent stars next season could be the New Jersey Nets' Deron Williams.

It could end up being Williams who ultimately could determine what happens in the long run with Howard.

Based on his recent comments, Williams puts his odds of re-signing with the Nets at 90 percent.

For a team looking to make a splash, that number could be just enough to increase New Jersey's odds of acquiring Howard from the Magic.

Magic GM Otis Smith stated last week that while not actively seeking a trade for Howard, he would be open to dealing the big man.

We also know about the Nets' offer to the Magic that included Brook Lopez and a pair of first-round picks.

The holdup in all of this is Howard's willingness to sign an extension. For any team to deal for Howard, they are going to need him extended.

It has been believed until now that Howard would only sign an extension with the Knicks or Lakers, but having a superstar point guard such as Williams already in place could be enough to convince Howard to sign an extension with the Nets.

The New Jersey deal, which also would get Hedo Turkoglu's contract off the Magic's books, could wind up being a better offer than anything the Magic could get from one of the bigger-market teams that Howard prefers.

Playing with a talent like Williams should prove very attractive to Howard and could be just enough to sway the odds in the Nets' favor.

Williams isn't only an All-Star point guard, but he could ultimately serve as New Jersey's best recruiter in an attempt to lure Howard.