NBA News Roundup, Saturday, August 24th: Dwight Howard to join the Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls star set for trade and more

The 2019-20 NBA season doesn't tip-off until October, although basketball fans already have plenty to be excited about. Contending teams in both the Eastern and Western Conferences have made substantial moves in free agency, and following the apparent demise of the Golden State Warriors, this season's title appears up for grabs.

Teams could also further improve over the coming weeks as the likes of Kevin Love may be made available for trade, while notable free agents such as Kenneth Faried and Carmelo Anthony are still looking for a home.

So, with plenty going on around the league, here is all the latest news and rumors you need to know for August 24th.

Los Angeles Lakers to sign Dwight Howard

Dwight Howard spent the 2012-2013 season with the Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have been searching for a new center over the past week after losing DeMarcus Cousins to a potentially season-ending knee injury. In their efforts to add depth at the five, the Lakers considered Joakim Noah, Dwight Howard, Marcin Gortat, and Marreese Speights, and ESPN is reporting that Howard will be the man to replace Cousins:

After completing a contract buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies, Dwight Howard will sign a non-guaranteed contract with the Los Angeles Lakers that comes with a clear message, league sources told ESPN: Disrupt this team -- and you'll be gone.

Despite ongoing doubts over his attitude, ESPN's report highlights that Los Angeles management was impressed by Howard's physical condition, and eventually opted to pick him over Noah.

Howard previously played for the Lakers during the 2012-13 season, as the franchise wanted the then All-Star to eventually replace Kobe Bryant as the face of the team. However, the Atlanta native left for the Houston Rockets after just one underwhelming season.

Minnesota Timberwolves planning Andrew Wiggins stay

Andrew Wiggins' time with the Minnesota Timberwolves has been underwhelming

Andrew Wiggins was selected first overall in the 2014 draft, but the Toronto native has yet to live up to his initial promise. Wiggins has been constantly linked with a trade over the past 12 months, although Minnesota Timberwolves president Gersson Rosas believes that the 24-year-old still has an important role to play in the franchise:

Andrew (Wiggins) in particular with his talent and physical abilities, the potential he shows, we’ve got to get that on a more consistent basis. He’s focused on it as well. In order for us to have the success we want to have, he’s got to be a main contributor. He understands that, we understand that.

Wiggins has started 400 regular-season games for the Timberwolves but has made just one trip to the postseason. During the 18-19 season, he averaged 18.1 points and 4.8 rebounds per game.

Chicago Bulls 'have given up' on Kris Dunn

Kris Dunn has failed to make much of an impact in Chicago

The Chicago Bulls acquired Kris Dunn as part of the Jimmy Butler trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves back in 2017, and the franchise expected the point guard to play a major role going forward. Yet, Dunn has struggled for consistency during his two-year spell in Chicago, and the Bulls opted to draft Coby White earlier this summer.

Chicago's decision to draft a young point guard cast doubt on Dunn's future and Darnell Mayberry of The Athletic is reporting that the Bulls have 'given up' on the 25-year-old:

I have no doubt the Bulls have given up on Kris Dunn, contrary to the team’s public stance. It’s been widely reported that they’ve explored trade opportunities for Dunn, and I’ll be surprised if Dunn still is on the team when media day arrives.

During the 18-19 season, Dunn started 44 times, averaging 11.3 points, 6.0 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game.