The Fan Hub

Thanks to the wavering trade demands from center Dwight Howard before the 2011-2012 season began, every word from the Orlando Magic big man has been scrutinized to death. Come to figure that following a second disappointing loss to the Boston Celtics, the comments Howard gave the Orlando Sentinel have been received as a warning that despite the team’s successful 12-6 start (which only places them sixth in the Eastern Conference), “Superman” is ready to move on from the city that he’s called home since he was drafted in 2004.

The words, however, seem to suggest the opposite. Firstly, it is worth noting that Howard used the word “we” to describe the change. This is not a disgruntled superstar blaming the team’s shortcomings on his teammates, but rather a leader encouraging the Magic roster to step up their performance, himself included. He still views himself as a part of this team, one that has a legitimate chance at advancing to the NBA Finals thanks to a balanced roster that includes point guard and former All-Star Jameer Nelson, veteran swingman Jason Richardson, and former NBA Champion Glen Davis.

Howard has been a big part of the team’s success, playing with intensity and focus, eager to cement his status as the undisputed best center in the NBA. He is averaging 19.5 points, 15.6 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks this season. It’s also worth noting that he’s played all 18 games for Orlando up to this point, something not all of the stars in the league have done. While Howard left fans media speculating on his intentions with ambiguous statements to media in the preseason, he has toned it down significantly as soon as the season started.

All signs indicate that Howard has no intentions of leaving Orlando midway through the season, and the feeling is likely shared by the team and general manager Otis Smith. With the New Jersey Nets still floundering thanks to the absence of Brook Lopez and the lack of reasonable depth around Lopez and Deron Williams, there really aren’t any legitimate trade partners anyways. With that said, the future of Dwight Howard will be determined by the success of this season or lack thereof. And something tells me that anything short of winning the Larry O’Brien Trophy will not satisfy number 12.

— Sanchay Jain