David Aldridge writes Tuesday, "Hate to rain on yet another parade, but...Lakers-Rockets-Magic deal not likely at moment." The reason is that Dwight Howard is still singing, "New York, New York."

"Dwight does control this, still," a source directly involved in the talks told Aldridge, meaning "Howard has not yet said that he would be willing to sign an extension with the Lakers, leaving them leery to pull the trigger on any potential deal." As for the Nets, Aldridge quotes a source as saying, things are "quiet" after the Cavaliers dropped out, and suggests that no deal is close.

• Rockets, Lakers in Latest Howard Talks - David Aldridge - NBA.com