This trade actually makes sense for both teams. The only way to beat the Heat is with dominant bigs. Howard and KG down low could get that done.
For the Lakers,they get an all-star PG who Kobe loves. As Kobe ages, Rondo can get him easy shots and scoring chances and Rondo can be their franchise cornerstone going forward. If the second player was Jeff Green this would be even better for the Lakers as it gives them another shooter to spread the floor to run D'Antoni's system.
The fact that everyone is denying this so strongly makes it seem even more legitimate.
If this trade happens there is a 90% change KG will retire after the season ends, and if he does then there's a good chance Pierce will go with him.
Dwight has shown he is incapable of showing loyalty for any team, period, so the chance of keeping him after this season is slim.
You would pretty much be renting Howard for one season, and throwing away your two hall of famers in the process.
I'm very 50/50 on this deal right now, even if Rondo is injured and does have his personality issues, those issues are minuscule compared to the ones Howard brings.
If it involved sending out any of out consistent poerces or young talent (Terry, Green, Lee, Sullinger, Bradley) as well there is no way in hell I'd do it.
Rondo for Bass I'd think about it, but if that happens I think we move into a new era instantly, because I don't see KG sticking around if any of the big three core is traded.
The only hope at all in this deal is that MAYBE Howard would respect Doc as a coach, and maybe he would help get through to him mentally. I think of Doc, Popovich and Phil Jackson as probably the only three coaches in the league right now who might have a chance of that. Howard probably gets what he wants because this would become his team, and he'd be a #1 star on a team that has a history of winning and filled with young talent.
If there is ANY big in the league that can take over KG's legacy on both ends of the floor (especially defensively) it's Howard IF you can get through to his head and if he can stay injury free...given Boston's histroy if injuries that last part worries me.
Very torn on this...Rondo+Bass for Howard you need to think about it, and Howard even if he doesn't work out would be a top tier trade chip.
I do think that AB, Lee, Pierce, KG, Howard would make a pretty elite lineup this year if Dwight can stay healthy both in body and mind, but i dunno...this guy really rubs me the wrong way.