Dwight Howard will end Tuesday the same way he began the day -- as a member of the Orlando Magic. When it comes to this summer's version of the 'Dwightmare' that hardly means nothing happened.
The Cleveland Cavaliers bailed on trade talks, and other NBA teams -- most notably the Los Angeles Lakers -- are apparently back in the picture.
Through it all, Sam Amick of Sports Illustrated reports that the Brooklyn Nets -- the only team Howard says he will sign a long-term contract with -- remain "cautiously optimistic" that they will be able to bring the superstar center to Brooklyn, teaming with Deron Williams and Joe Johnson.
Amick writes:
While the Magic continue talks with several teams about the three-time Defensive Player of the Year, sources say the Nets remain cautiously optimistic that they will be able to acquire Howard in a two-team scenario. By offering as many as five first-round draft picks in a potential package, Brooklyn -- which already has Deron Williams, Joe Johnson and Gerald Wallace in the fold -- is hopeful that it can land Howard by knowing what interests new Magic general manager Rob Hennigan above all else.
The former Oklahoma City executive is looking to build through the draft in much the same way that the Thunder did during his time there and has been prioritizing picks in this process.
In the meantime the Nets are negotiating a contract extension with Brook Lopez as a backup plan.
So, nothing really changed but plenty certainly happened. Tune in again Wednesday for a new edition of the 'Dwightmare.'