Magic know Howard is on the Hot List

[cruzg24]

Josh Robbins of the Orlando Sentinel: New Jersey’s interest in Howard has been obvious. The Nets are just as desperate to hang on to 2012 free-agent-to-be Deron Williams as the Magic are to retain Howard. What’s also obvious — but rarely said — is that the Magic would jump at the opportunity to acquire a superstar point guard to pair with Howard and, therefore, increase the chances of Howard remaining in Orlando for years to come.

So, it’s probable that [Magic GM Otis] Smith would make a counteroffer to the Nets in attempt to acquire Williams — even though the Nets probably would reject it outright. Aside from Howard, Orlando lacks enough desirable trade chips to make a deal happen. Smith almost certainly will be inundated with trade offers for Howard, a perennial All-NBA player who is on track to become the most decorated defensive player in league history.

The Nets’ reported willingness to take on Turkoglu would enable the Magic to get far under the salary cap if Orlando also decides to use the amnesty provision in the tentative labor deal on Gilbert Arenas. Divesting itself of Turkoglu’s and Arenas’ deals would give Orlando a chance to rebuild its team via free agency. Howard is sick of all the speculation. Late Tuesday, a fan asked Howard over Twitter whether he’s ready for the “media circus” over where Howard wants to play. Howard responded, “imma cut my ears off so I can’t hear them.”

 

[RipCity32]

I would advise Howard to not cut his ears off. Maybe invest in earplugs however?

 

[Pugz]

i wouldnt sign an extension if im dwight and new jersey is willing to take on hedo.