NBA approves Lakers deal for Dwight Howard, Andrew Bynum

The NBA approved the four-team, multi-player trade Friday, making it official for the Lakers to acquire Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard in a deal in which center Andrew Bynum will go to the Philadelphia 76ers.

The Lakers will get Howard, point guard Chris Duhon and forward Earl Clark from the Magic.

The Lakers will send the Magic forward Josh McRoberts, Christian Eyenga and a protected first-round draft pick in 2017.

The deal was completed Friday after all four of the team’s general managers –- including Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak –- finished a conference call with league officials.

“We’d like to thank Andrew for all he’s done for the team and the organization,” Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak said in a news release Friday afternoon. “Andrew has been with us since we drafted him at 17 years old and over the last seven years we have watched him develop into an All-Star player who has helped the team win two NBA Championships. He’s a special talent with a bright future. We appreciate all of his contributions and wish him well for the remainder of his career.

“We also appreciate the contributions that Josh and Christian made,” said Kupchak. “Although they were only with us for a short period of time, they worked hard both on and off the court and were well respected by their teammates. We wish them the best of luck in the future.”

ALSO:

Lakers agree to acquire Dwight Howard for Andrew Bynum

Kobe Bryant on Dwight Howard: Superman has found a home

Lakers become championship favorites by acquiring Dwight Howard