Dwight Howard still prefers a trade from the Magic, according to a source.

Orlando announced that the tenures of Stan Van Gundy and Otis Smith were over on Monday, but Howard still seeks a trade before the start of the season, according to the source.

The Nets are considered the frontrunner, but "it is not going to be a one-horse race,” the source said. The Mavericks and Knicks are also in the conversation, while the Lakers and Clippers are as well to a lesser extent.

Howard is eager to begin the next phase of his career and the Magic don't want a repeat of circumstances they endured during the 11-12 season.

Executives from the Magic are expected to meet with Howard soon and will accomodate his trade request should he ask for a trade.

The team that is able and willing to take back the contract of Hedo Turkoglu is likely to have an edge in trading for Howard.