Dwight Howard and his Orlando dilemma

Everyday until Dwight Howard makes a decision about his future we will hear conflicting reports about whether he wants to stay or go in Orlando.

Because Howard himself is conflicted, torn between the only franchise he’s known and what is best for him as a player.

The evidence of this conflict comes via this Baynews9.com report that Howard wants to stay in Orlando. With conditions.

Saturday afternoon, one of Dwight Howards’ closest confidants told BHSN that Howard’s preference is to stay in Orlando, rather than be traded. Howard’s hope is for Magic President Otis Smith to “hit a home run” via trade and acquire another NBA superstar, most notably Chris Paul of the New Orleans Hornets. Monta Ellis of the Golden State Warriors was another name also mentioned.

Those trades are not happening, unless you think someone wants to take on Hedo Turkoglu’s contract just so they can get J.J. Redick.

Dwight Howard cares about Orlando, both the fans and the organization. It’s his home. But he realizes this roster is years away from winning again and he knows his legacy — not to mention endorsement dollars, particularly internationally — depend on a ring. Or rings.

So he is conflicted. He wants to stay in his heart, but his head is saying it’s time for a change.

And you get the feeling his head is going to win this battle unless Otis Smith has a miracle in his back pocket.