I actually think the Lakers and Hawks are on a crash course for a trade. And I think what it might end up being is Howard going to Atlanta for Horford, when the Lakers see the writing on the wall and realize Howard is not staying this summer.
I was thinking somethikng similar except Howard for Smith. maybe broaden it to Howard/Gasol for Horford/Smith/Pachulia. not sure the $ works and that would be a major shakeup for both teams but it would clear the discontent in LA and still fibe atlanta that foundation player they really need
The problem is, Smith is the lure for Howard. Smith and Howard are buddies, and the Hawks are holding on to Smith in the hopes of luring Howard and Paul this summer to Atlanta.
For this reason, I think there is very little chance Smith is traded anywhere this season, unless Howard and Paul come off the table somehow.
But, if Howard tells LA that he isn't going to resign (or they see the writing on the wall), they could just decide to blow it up, and run with Horford.