Apparently in an ongoing effort to make sure his name is in the news at all times, contrary to earlier reports, Dwight Howard's agent is refuting reports that the Orlando Magic center will sign an extension with the Lakers if traded to them.
"Dwight's position has remained unchanged since the end of this past season," said Dan Fegan of LaGardere Unlimited. "He fully intends to explore free agency at the end of next season, regardless of what team trades for him, including Brooklyn."
Earlier on Thursday, Howard had said he would be interested in signing an extension with the Lakers, however if he waits until his current deal expires, Howard will be in line for his maximum payoff at a five-year deal worth up to $108 million.
The key centerpiece for the Lakers, if a trade were to happen, would be sending Andrew Bynum away and the Magic want a guarantee that Bynum will sign an extension before they pull the trigger on the trade.
Meanwhile, the agent for Bynum said it would be "foolish" for any team to trade for his client without first gauging Bynum's interest in signing a long-term extension. Bynum is also thought to be holding out for free-agency because he could sign a longer, more lucrative deal.
Talk about Bynum and Howard with Laker fans at Silver Screen and Roll, with Magic fans at Orlando Pinstriped Post, and with Cavalier fans at Fear The Sword.