Kobe Bryant wouldn't care if Lakers trade Dwight Howard

If the Los Angeles Lakers want to trade Dwight Howard, Kobe Bryant wouldn't be opposed.

Fox Sports' Sam Amico reported that the Black Mamba would give his "full support" to dealing D12 if that's the direction the Lakers want to go. It's not because of a falling out between the two. Bryant and Howard "aren't close, no rift exists between them, either."

While the two may not have heat with each other, Bryant isn't sure Howard "has the right approach, mental toughness and overall willingness to help the Lakers flourish in what has become their most important stretch." He's not the only one.

Amico writes:

[Steve] Nash, Pau Gasol and several others also seem fairly uneasy about Howard's commitment to the cause.

According to sources, a number of Lakers have their doubts about whether Howard takes the game seriously and "wants it" enough for the challenges the team now faces.

Howard seems like too much of a clown for the Lakers' culture.

Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak has reportedly told Howard that he won't be traded before the deadline. But that doesn't mean he isn't listening.

However, sources say Kupchak has indeed taken several calls centered on Howard. So far, according to sources, Kupchak has quickly shot down any pitches.

If LA doesn't move him, the franchise will most assuredly attempt to re-sign him in the offseason.