The Golden State Warriors made a legitimate impression on Dwight Howard during their meeting and have become a factor in his decision.

The Los Angeles Lakers would have to agree to a sign-and-trade for Howard to be acquired by the Warriors.

The most likely scenario would be for the Warriors to send the expiring contract of Andrew Bogut and either Klay Thompson or Harrison Barnes to the Lakers for Howard.

The Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks remain more serious contenders to sign away Howard from the Lakers since a sign-and-trade would not be necessary.