After pulling off one of the most successful off-seasons in recent NBA history, the Los Angeles Lakers' season has been fairly unsuccessful, to put it mildly. Things may have just taken an even uglier turn in their season as sources seem to have told ESPN that the Lakers are now facing increased pressure to trade center Dwight Howard before the Feb. 21 trade deadline.
According to the source, Howard has reportedly been dropping hints that he is unhappy with his role and discomfort in head coach Mike D'Antoni's system and that he is considering leaving at the conclusion of the season.
The possibility that the Lakers are facing added pressure is furthered bolstered when considering that Howard wanted to be traded to a contender. While the Lakers are a contender on paper, the worsening state of the roster indicates the Lakers are as far from contending for a title as the Charlotte Bobcats are.
General manager Mitch Kupchak continues to say that no trades are imminent. There is still a lot of time between now and the trade deadline, and just about anything can happen.
