Dwight Howard to the Lakers: Kobe Bryant, Doug Collins discuss trade

Kobe Bryant and his new teammate Dwight Howard are "locked and loaded" in their pursuit of an NBA title, while 76ers coach Doug Collins is excited to add center Andrew Bynum to his lineup, according to comments by Bryant and Collins in the aftermath of the Lakers' trade for Howard.

After months of trade rumors, Howard is on his way to Los Angeles. The four-team deal will also send Bynum to Philadelphia and 76ers forward Andre Iguodala to the Nuggets. (For full details, see here.)

Bryant wrote a message to his fans on Facebook celebrating the trade.

"Well, it looks like Superman has found a home," Bryant wrote. "I wish nothing but the best for Big Bynum. I hope he follows what was a great season last year with an even better one next year. I know LA is excited about the deal and rightfully so.

"The Lakers landed a piece that will hopefully carry the franchise long after I'm gone. I have spoken to Dwight Howard already and we are locked and loaded to bring back the title. Wow, what a summer Jimmy and Mitch have had so far. Unreal! I'm focused on our semifinal game vs Argentina, but I had to pause for a few to send you my thoughts, in case you were curious.."

Collins, who is working for NBC's broadcast team in London, also spoke about his team's acquisition of Bynum.

“When you think about adding Andrew Bynum, a big man who can score in the paint, rebound and block shots — something we desperately needed — and Jason Richardson adds another shooter to our lineup, so I’m very excited. “On the flip side of that, you have to trade somebody, and Andre Iguodala had a brilliant career for the Philadelphia 76ers. I coached him for two years, he helped me win a lot of games. I’m very, very appreciative of him, and I wish him well in Denver.”