The Dwightmare is finally over, and we believe that Dwight Howard got his wish by going to the Los Angeles Lakers. While Howard did end up in one of his preferred destinations, the actual trade may have caught some people off guard. It was a four team deal involving LAL, Orlando, Denver, and Philadelphia. The Lakers obviously receive Howard, along with respectable role players Chris Duhon and Earl Clark. Orlando receives the haul of big man Nikola Vucevic, former 76ers first round pick Maurice Harkless, Arron Afflalo, Al Harrington, Josh McRoberts, and Christian Eyenga. Orlando also received three first round draft picks and two second round draft picks. Details of the picks acquired below:
The Nuggets receive defensive maestro Andre Iguodala; Whiile the 76ers receive center Andrew Bynum and sharpshooter Jason Richardson.
a first-round pick from either the Nuggets or the New York Knicks in 2014, a protected first-round pick from the Sixers, a protected first-round pick from the Lakers in 2017, a second-round pick from the Nuggets in 2013 and a conditional second-rounder from the Lakers in 2015. - Adrian Wojnarowski
The two main talking points from this trade are first off, the relief of the Dwight Howard drama finally ending, and the Lakers not trading Pau Gasol. The Lakers retain Gasol, and now can run out arguably the best starting five in the NBA. It is safe to say that the trade at least changed the landscape of the Western Conference, and makes the Lakers the favorites to make the NBA finals next season.
The Nuggets also improve by getting swingman Andre Iguodala. Arguably the best wing defender in the NBA right now, Iguodala is also a great playmaker and rebounder. He is also crazy athletic, and has at least a respectable three point shot. The Nuggets should see a increase in wins, especially if JaVale McGee continues to improve.
Philadelphia lands center Andrew Bynum, which could be considered a steal. He is often called 1.b to Dwight Howard in talks of who is the best center. The 76ers also acquire guard Jason Richardson, who I will think will compete for a starting slot. He still provides a little athleticism, and will surely be a three point marksman like previous years.
Orlando may have actually gotten the worst of the trade, but still got some solid players. Afflalo and Harrington are established veterans who will come to play every night. Vucevic showed some promise last year, and Harkless has crazy upside. Orlando also relieved some cap, and got a few draft picks. On paper they lost big time, but when you look a little closer the Magic did okay in trying to maximize their end of the deal.
So now that it's over, what's your thoughts on the Dwight Howard saga? Leave a comment or feedback below, or head over to our contact info page and use any of the links to get in touch!
