NBA Trade Rumors as the Deadline Approaches

Omer Asik

Nov 23, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets power forward Dwight Howard (12) and center Omer Asik (3) on the bench during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Richardson-USA TODAY Sports

Ah, heck, I’ll go ahead and cross that bridge right now. You all knew it was coming anyway. Omer Asik has been the center of trade conversations since Dwight Howard signed with the Rockets in July. The disgruntled would-be starter enjoyed his first taste of the spotlight last year and has shouted his discontent from the Houston bench all season. The Rockets attempted to trade him back in December, but could not find the right deal. His recent return to the court screams “showcase” for potential suitors.

The Celtics could dangle the Jeff Green carrot in front of general manager Daryl Morey, but I don’t think they will. Omer Asik’s contract is just as expensive on a yearly basis, though it would save them a season of bleeding the big bucks. Boston can sniff out a better arrangement. Houston, on the other hand, may end up settling in order to exile Asik from their ranks. New Orleans’ Ryan Anderson could re-enter the discussion if Houston wants to gamble on herniated disc recovery time.