Dwight Howard changes mind again, will keep opt-out option for 2012-2013

Please, just make a decision. (Getty Images)

Dwight Howard just can't make up his mind.

In a whirlwind 24 hours that has seen the Orlando Magic's All-Star center pledge his loyalty to his team through the rest of this season and then tell his teammates that he would not opt-out of his contract this summer, the script has taken another turn.

Ken Berger of CBSSports.com reports on Wednesday night that Howard has flip-flopped on a declaration he made to teammates and Magic management earlier Wednesday that he would forego the early termination option on his contract and stay with the Magic through the 2012-2013 season.Instead, he has now informed the team that he wants to keep that option available to him.

Dwight Howard and agent Dan Fegan told Magic officials tonight he will not give up his opt-out clause for next season, source confirms.Confirming ESPN.com report, source says Howard and Fegan delivered news on conference call with top Orlando brass.

Howard participated in call before boarding bus on way to arena for game tonight against Spurs, a second source says.Magic officials are not surprised. Howard has changed his mind so many times during saga, some brass were bracing for him to do it again.

By refusing to sign away leverage, Howard forces Magic to decide whether to keep him without firm commitment he'll stay beyond this season.

The Magic have reportedly continued trade talks throughout the ordeal, and face the NBA's 3 p.m. Thursday trade deadline.