Lakers Would Reportedly Make Andrew Bynum Available In Blockbuster

Read More: Dwight Howard (C - ORL), Andrew Bynum (C - LAL), Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have coveted Andrew Bynum ever since they took a chance on choosing the young phenom in the 2005 NBA Draft with the 10th overall pick. The front office has apparently loosened its grip on the center, however, as they look to improve on their roster as the current NBA trade rumors heat up.

Front office executive Jim Buss said that Bynum was "untouchable in trade talks" earlier this year, but that apparently is no longer the case.

It's no surprise to anyone that the Lakers will be one of the primary suitors in a possible trade for Howard, and a person with knowledge of the team's strategy told CBSSports.com that executive Jim Buss finally has dropped his opposition to trading center Andrew Bynum "for the right deal."

That's code for "a deal for Dwight Howard," and it's clear from those familiar with Howard's thinking that he'd like to join the Lakers. Bynum may or may not be on the Magic's list of suitable replacements for Howard in a potential deal that also would have to include young players on rookie contracts and draft picks.

It's obvious that very few players would be able to pry Bynum away from the Lakers, but it makes sense that Howard would be one of those players.