Hoops Nation

One source close to the situation told ESPN The Magazine’s Ric Bucher that the Magic have promised Howard that they will add a quality player before Thursday’s deadline and that Howard can decide the fate of both GM Otis Smith and coach Stan Van Gundy at the end of the season if he signs an extension. Bucks swingman Stephen Jackson, frustrated in Milwaukee, is available and sources say he and Howard have talked about playing together.

All indications are that Magic team president Alex Martins, not Smith, is presiding over attempts to keep Howard in Orlando.

(According to Ric Bucher from ESPN.com)