With the Clippers taking on the Thunder tonight with the league's best record at stake, and the Lakers just trying to keep pace for the last playoff spot, it's clear the usual script has been flipped in Tinseltown. Here's the latest on a pair of clubs going in opposite directions:
- The Lakers, intent on re-signing Dwight Howard this summer, have been rejecting all trade offers for him, according to Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News, who cautions that the team's stance could change before the deadline (Twitter links). There have been conflicting reports today about whether the Nets are considering another trade push for Howard.
- Sam Smith of Bulls.com hears the Lakers' initial pursuit of Phil Jackson this season came on the suggestion of Howard's camp.
- Mike D'Antoni has been a "disaster" for the Lakers, but Matt Moore of CBSSports.com makes the case that Pau Gasol should shoulder as much, if not more, of the blame for his poor play.
- Even though the other L.A. team made flashier moves, it's the Clippers' offseason that's paying dividends so far, observes J.A. Adande of ESPN.com, who examines each of the Clips' moves one by one.
- The Clippers announced they've signed a 10-year extension to their Staples Center lease that will keep them in the building until at least 2024.