The Nets are backing Brook Lopez while doubting that Dwight Howard will ever become available, even as the Lakers crumble and Howard’s camp pines for Brooklyn.

According to multiple team sources, the Nets have not engaged in trade talks for Howard and remain skeptical the Lakers will deal their center by next month’s deadline. They’ve also talked privately with Lopez about the circumstances, reassuring him that he’s not involved in any trade proposals after he signed a four-year, $61 million deal.

via Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News