Nets' Brook Lopez said speculation about team's interest in Dwight Howard doesn't bother him

His right arm in a sling after it underwent surgery last week, Brook Lopez nevertheless grabbed a rake and helped dig holes to plant trees today in Newark's Branch Brook Park, and the Nets' center said the surgery went well, the arm feels good, and if it heals properly, he shouldn't have any lasting effects from the injury when next season begins.

He also said speculation about the Nets' interest in acquiring Dwight Howard doesn't bother him, and added he could even see himself playing alongside Howard -- if the Nets were able to sign the Magic center as a free agent or otherwise acquire him without trading Lopez.

"I've played with other big men -- at lower levels,'' Lopez said. "I've played with my brother" Robin, in college, at Stanford.