Los Angeles Lakers News: L.A. In The Lead To Land Dwight Howard?

Start the engines back up because the Lakers appear to be back on the Dwight Howard train.

After Kobe Bryant publically announced that he could retire within the next two seasons, the Lakers quickly began to push for a possible trade to bring the Magic superstar to L.A. to help Bryant capture his sixth ring.

According to new reports by ESPN, the Magic, Lakers and Cavaliers are discussing a potential deal. Orlando wouldn't receive Andrew Bynum in the trade, but would accept an array of players including a package of youngsters, recent draftees and future first-round draft picks. Bynum would go to Cleveland with Howard heading to L.A.

Howard, who has vocally addressed the media about his desire to leave Orlando this upcoming season, has basically demanded to be traded to the Brooklyn Nets. The center feels that a tandem of him and Deron Williams would be good enough to win a championship.

Besides wanting a trade, he has also stated that he would only sign a contract extension with Brooklyn. Howard will be a free agent next summer, but won't give possible destinations like Los Angeles or Houston a commitment to staying long-term.

With the acquisition of point guard Steve Nash, and Bryant still playing at an exceptional level, the Lakers are already a championship-caliber team. Joining L.A. would give Howard a chance to win his first ring. Howard, however, is reportedly leery of going to a place where he has to live up to a legacy.

The Magic don't have much leverage since the All-Star has made it clear that he won't re-sign with Orlando. They want to get a lot of value in return for Howard, but may have to take the best package available so they don't lose him for nothing.

While trade talks between Orlando and L.A. are ongoing, teams like the Rockets, Hawks and Nets can't be counted out.

If no team can agree to a deal with Orlando, Howard will have one year left on his contract, and one can only assume that he will pursue free-agency when the time comes.