Howard Will Only Re-Sign With One Team

Dwight Howard says that he will not re-sign with a team outside his preferred list of trade destinations, writes Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports.  The Magic star also denied using the term "blackmail" with regards to the Magic front office convincing him to waive his early termination option.

"There’s only one team on my list and if I don’t get traded there, I'll play the season out and explore my free agency after that," said Howard, who is reportedly seeking a trade to the Nets but would not name the team.

Howard also pointed out that he has been asking for a trade for some time, well before his recent meeting with GM Rob Hennigan and also prior to the dismissal of coach Stan Van Gundy.  While he may be eager to start again with a new team, he would not speculate on whether he could be ready for the start of the 2012/13 season after undergoing back surgery.

The former first-overall pick also fought back against suggestions from inside and outside the organization that he wasn't truly injured late last season and bailed on his team.  Howard also rejected the "coach killer" label that has been thrust upon him by some following Van Gundy's departure from Orlando.

While it appears that Howard is pushing for a trade to the Nets, the Rockets and Lakers are also talking trade with the Magic.  Orlando would reportedly prefer to send the big man to Houston or Los Angeles as they can offer a stronger package in return.

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