The Magic will offer Dwight Howard a contract extension next summer.

General Manager Otis Smith told the Sentinel that the Magic will try to sign Howard to an extension before he can become a free agent in the summer of 2012.

"Of course we will," said Smith, when asked if he'll approach Howard with a contract of his choosing. "We want Dwight to be in a Magic uniform for as long as he plays basketball.

"That's in the best interest of our franchise and, we hope, it is in the best interest of Dwight."

When the Sentinel asked Howard about signing an extension, the Magic center smiled.

"I plan on being here forever," he said. "I love Orlando."