The Dream Shake - Houston Rockets will not trade Omer AsikThe best footwork on the Internethttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/34031/32x32.png2013-12-19T12:42:22-06:00http://www.thedreamshake.com/rss/stream/49467652013-12-19T12:42:22-06:002013-12-19T12:42:22-06:00Rockets will hold onto Asik for now
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<p>After not getting a deal they wanted, the Rockets have reportedly backed off their plans to trade Omer Asik.</p> <p>All night yesterday, the rumors swirled about Omer Asik being traded to the Celtics, and one thing just didn't add up: Why would Daryl Morey take a deal that has him giving up the best player, has him taking on money in the long term, just for one draft pick? Apparently the answer to that question was "he's not." Today, with the deals on the table unappealing, the Rockets have reportedly backed off their trade plans and will keep Asik for now.</p>
<p>From Stein and Wojnarowski:</p>
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<p>Hearing now that Rockets are moving away from the trade table on Omer Asik. Looks like there will be no trade today</p>
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine/statuses/413730155144572928">December 19, 2013</a>
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<p>Tho Asik is $10 million-a-year center when you average salary this season & next, owing him $15 mil of total next season has put teams off</p>
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine/statuses/413731962403028992">December 19, 2013</a>
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<p>Trade deadline (Feb. 20) still a long way away but there is growing pessimism within Rockets that they can find a trade partner on Asik</p>
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine/statuses/413731053312819200">December 19, 2013</a>
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<p>Houston has ended talks on an Omer Asik trade and plan to keep him for now, league source tells Yahoo Sports.</p>
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WojYahooNBA/statuses/413730859540168704">December 19, 2013</a>
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<p>Houston needs to buy more time to find a deal. Rockets weren't dealing from a place of leverage now, and rest of league knew it.</p>
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WojYahooNBA/statuses/413734176244768768">December 19, 2013</a>
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<p>We've known all along that Daryl Morey is not going to take a deal he doesn't like, and today's move just solidifies that belief. The Rockets had little to no leverage, and weren't going to trade one of their top assets just for the sake of it.</p>
<p>For now, Asik stays. There are two more months until the deadline, and a deal might go down, but the Rockets might just seek to hold onto him at this point. At the very least, they're better off holding onto Asik than taking a bad deal now.</p>
<p>Asik is not going to be happy with this, but he's a professional and despite his pouting, he will get back on the court and bust his butt. He knows now that the Rockets' ability to trade him may be dependent on his on-court performance, and hopefully that will give him some motivation to play well.</p>
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https://www.thedreamshake.com/2013/12/19/5228056/houston-rockets-omer-asik-trade-rumors-2013Patrick Harrel2013-12-19T07:00:05-06:002013-12-19T07:00:05-06:00Rounding up all the Asik rumors from last night
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<p>The Rockets are likely going to trade Omer Asik today. A recap of the rumors across the league about where he may end up. </p> <p>Yesterday afternoon, reports started surfacing all over the place about where Omer Asik might end up and what the Rockets would get in return, and the deal that kept coming up was one that would send him to the Boston Celtics in return for Courtney Lee, Brandon Bass, and a first round pick. And as time went along, it seemed as if that deal would come to fruition.</p>
<p>Now, it's morning, and no deal has come about. What do we make of it? Perhaps, as Steve Bulpett writes, no deal was ever particularly close to being done.</p>
<h4><a href="http://bostonherald.com/sports/celtics_nba/boston_celtics/2013/12/celtics_rockets_trade_talks_not_so_hot" target="_blank">Celtics-Rockets trade talks not so hot | Boston Herald</a></h4>
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<p>On the list of spectators for this latest round of trade rumors, one should be certain to include the Celtics. While the club is said to be more than open to the possibility of acquiring Omer Asik from Houston, it has made no move in that direction in several days.</p>
<p>Multiple sources confirmed that an offer of Brandon Bass, Courtney Lee and a first-round draft pick - protected, at that - was indeed made by the Celts ... last week. When it was summarily turned down by the Rockets, the matter was closed and remained such as of late today.</p>
<p>.......</p>
<p>The Celtics were not deep in talks with the Rockets today. They were not negotiating over which first-round pick would be included in the deal or how well protected that pick would be.</p>
<p>According to a source from a team that has been involved in the process and dropped out, the next move would have to come from the Rockets.</p>
<p>The Rockets have known for quite some time that Asik wants out. Word is he was told the club would sign no center ahead of him when he agreed to join Houston as a free agent in 2012. When Dwight Howard was lured this past summer, Asik reminded them of his and quietly asked to be moved.</p>
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<p>Well, that changes things. The Rockets have been said to have an offer they're willing to accept and I don't think that has changed, but just as things seemed to be honing in on the Celtics last night from every direction, this report goes against that and throws everything into flux.</p>
<p>I am glad, however, that the Rockets appear unwilling to take the offer the Celtics reportedly made of Lee, Bass, and a protected first. Two bad contracts and a crappy first rounder for one of the top 15 centers in the league, even on a big contract, seems more than a little underwhelming. It would help the Rockets' depth, but I don't see why the Rockets would be interested in that deal.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, his last point that the Rockets apparently promised Asik that they would not sign anyone in front of him is interesting, but I am rather skeptical. On a team that refuses to sign extensions, that operates in such an efficient manner, are they really going to make any promises like that to a free agent? Perhaps they played up Asik's fit as a starting center, but I doubt Morey promised Asik that he would be the top center in Houston.</p>
<h4>Maybe we're not going to be done tomorrow!</h4>
<p>Clutchfans has an interesting report that might throw off the time frame of any Asik trade:</p>
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<p>Source: Rockets have been informed by league that the deadline is 12/20 (not 12/19) to make trade & still be able to trade received players.</p>
— ClutchFans (@clutchfans) <a href="https://twitter.com/clutchfans/statuses/413552719266201600">December 19, 2013</a>
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<p>Dave also noted on Twitter that this will likely not change the Rockets' plans with respect to Asik, but it does give the Rockets a little bit of breathing room if a deal does not get done precisely at the right time. It also potentially prolongs our suffering as we wait to see what comes back in an Asik trade.</p>
<p>To be honest, I'm starting to get Asik of the whole thing.</p>
<h4>Lakers want to get in on the fun</h4>
<p>This last report is from Ramona Shelburne of ESPN LA, discussing the Lakers' minor interest in Asik:</p>
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<p>Lakers checked in on Houston, which is determined to trade disgruntled center Omer Asik before Thursday. But nothing ever got serious</p>
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ramonashelburne/statuses/413456036452769792">December 18, 2013</a>
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<p>I have to say, I would vastly prefer a deal that sends out Lin and Asik for Gasol to the crappy offer the Celtics made, even though I realize that it would never happen. At least if the Rockets acquired Gasol, they would be setting themselves up with ridiculous payroll flexibility moving forward. In the Celtics deal, they get a first rounder and some depth for the bench, but mess up their payroll and tank their chances at LaMarcus Aldridge or Kevin Love.</p>
<p>In a Pau Gasol deal, they add a veteran piece who could backup both Jones and Howard, and generate near-max cap space this summer, the summer of LeBron, Wade, Bosh, and Carmelo. It would hurt them in the short term, but the long term payoff would be much higher.</p>
<p>Now, this is all a moot point because I don't think the Lakers would go for that deal in any situation given their payroll plans and now with the news that they're taking Gasol off the trade block, it's even less likely, but it is some interesting food for thought. What should the Rockets' biggest priority be? Ensuring cap flexibility, gaining draft picks, or improving their talent right now?</p>
<p>Let us know in the comments!</p>
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https://www.thedreamshake.com/2013/12/19/5226632/omer-asik-trade-rumors-houston-rockets-celtics-sixersPatrick Harrel2013-12-18T17:39:09-06:002013-12-18T17:39:09-06:00Asik to Celtics creeps closer to finish line?
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<p>More and more reports are surfacing that Omer Asik will head to the Boston Celtics. </p> <p>As the day turns to night, it seems more and more likely that Omer Asik is going to the Boston Celtics. First, Adrian Wojnarowski <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thedreamshake.com/2013/12/18/5225050/nba-trade-rumors-2013-omer-asik-houston-rockets-boston-celtics">tweeted about a deal being discussed</a>, and now details continue to surface about the potential trade to the Celtics. Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe is now reporting that the proposed Asik to Boston deal is close.</p>
<p>Here's what Washburn had to say:</p>
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<p>Hearing Asik to <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23celtics&src=hash">#celtics</a> is close. Hearing Lee, Bass and no. 1 pick. Celtics reluctant to give up '14 pick</p>
— gary washburn (@GwashburnGlobe) <a href="https://twitter.com/GwashburnGlobe/statuses/413436853950619648">December 18, 2013</a>
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<p>Meanwhile, we are starting to get a bit of clarity as to how the deal will look and what the holdup is. According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the deal is just a <a href="https://twitter.com/WojYahooNBA/status/413449850894942208" target="_blank">two-team trade as of now</a>. Various media sources reported that the Cavaliers and the 76ers were involved in the trade talks, but it appears as though the Rockets and Celtics are simply discussing a simple two-team deal.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, the holdup appears to be <a href="https://twitter.com/WojYahooNBA/status/413438979984609280" target="_blank">draft pick related</a>. The Celtics have three excess draft picks in the next five drafts, and though the Rockets would obviously want to push for a 2014 pick, preferably the Nets pick, Boston is understandably resistant to such a deal as that pick is extremely valuable in one of the best drafts in recent memory.</p>
<p>If the deal does go through as rumored, the Rockets would have to make a corresponding move as their roster sits at 15 right now and the proposed trade has them taking in two players while only sending out one. They could fix this by including Ronnie Brewer or Donatas Motiejunas in the trade, or by waiving a player before they make the deal.</p>
<p>The Celtics play in less than an hour, and whether they play Bass or Lee will say a lot about how far along this deal is. For now, stay tuned as this deal seems headed for conclusion sooner rather than later.</p>
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https://www.thedreamshake.com/2013/12/18/5225548/houston-rockets-omer-asik-trade-rumors-boston-celticsPatrick Harrel2013-12-18T15:06:24-06:002013-12-18T15:06:24-06:00Woj: Asik to the Celtics gaining traction
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<p>Adrian Wojnarowski is reporting that the Rockets and Celtics are discussing a deal that would bring a first round pick to Houston in exchange for Asik.</p> <p>The last week or so of trade rumors has been quite the whirlwind. The Rockets are going to trade Omer Asik at some point today or tomorrow, but he could be headed anywhere from Boston, Philadelphia, Charlotte, or Atlanta. At some point in the last week, each of those destinations was seen as likely. Now, Adrian Wojnarowski is reporting that the Boston Celtics have jumped into the lead of those negotiations and are offering a first round pick in return.</p>
<p>Here's what Woj had to say:</p>
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<p>The Boston Celtics are gaining traction in talks to acquire Houston center Omer Asik, league sources tell Yahoo Sports.</p>
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WojYahooNBA/statuses/413405218358194178">December 18, 2013</a>
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<p>Serious talks on Boston-Houston package for Asik have included Brandon Bass, Courtney Lee and a 1st round pick, sources tell Yahoo.</p>
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WojYahooNBA/statuses/413407567449448449">December 18, 2013</a>
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<p>If such a package were to come together, it is unclear if Lee would go to Rockets or be routed to a third team.</p>
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WojYahooNBA/statuses/413407970031304704">December 18, 2013</a>
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<p>What he is reporting isn't anything that deviates from the narrative emerging since last night, but his reports seem to give some indication that the Celtics are heavily favored to get this deal across the finish line. Boston is obviously interested, and they have the draft picks to make it happen.</p>
<p>The Celtics have extra draft picks from the Nets and the Clippers, and with so many excess picks in hand, it makes sense that they would make a deal surrounding at least one pick. But is that enough to convince the Rockets to give up Omer Asik?</p>
<p>Wojnarowski notes that it isn't clear whether Lee will be routed to another team if a deal goes down, but I would expect any deal that includes Lee to be a three-way as Morey wants no part of that contract. Brandon Bass is a solid power forward, but he's not a backup center at just 6'8". If the Rockets were to land him, it would help solidify a front court that has looked weaker in recent days without Asik, but he is not going to solve their problems behind Dwight Howard.</p>
<p>Finally, we come to the draft pick. The Rockets would be making this deal for the draft pick, but the value of the pick depends a lot on which pick it is. If the pick is the Nets or Celtics pick this year, the Rockets can expect it to fall in the mid-teens. That is good value, but I'm not sure it's enough to get a deal done.</p>
<p>I suspect we will find out more as the day goes along, so stick here at The Dream Shake for all you need to know about the developing story.</p>
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https://www.thedreamshake.com/2013/12/18/5225050/nba-trade-rumors-2013-omer-asik-houston-rockets-boston-celticsPatrick Harrel2013-12-17T20:14:10-06:002013-12-17T20:14:10-06:00Celtics emerge as likely Asik destination
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<p>The Rockets are going to trade Omer Asik in the next 24 hours, and Marc Stein continues to report that a three-way deal with the Rockets, Celtics, and another team seems likely. What would that trade look like?</p> <p>At some point in the next 24 hours, Omer Asik will almost certainly be traded. Tomorrow is the self-imposed deadline for the Rockets to trade Asik, and the team has reportedly taken offers that they are willing to accept. Where Asik would land has been a great talking point, with rumors connecting him everywhere from Charlotte to Phoenix over the last few days. Now, Marc Stein notes that one scenario is gaining traction as a likely outcome among NBA executives: A three-way trade that sends Asik to the Boston Celtics with another team facilitating the deal.</p>
<p>Here's what Stein had to say:</p>
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<p>Those Rondo-to-SAC rumblings have been shot down pretty firmly ... but I continue to hear Celts remain at heart of trade mix for Omer Asik</p>
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine/statuses/413118031129092096">December 18, 2013</a>
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<p>As Dec. 19 draws near, more & more folks forecasting three-team Asik deal & Boston right there w/Philly now in terms of likely destinations</p>
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine/statuses/413120057145716737">December 18, 2013</a>
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<p>If the Celtics are truly interested in acquiring Asik, a three-way deal seems to make the most sense as their major assets all have significant money after this year. Jeff Green, the most likely piece to go in an Asik deal, has another two years left on his contract worth more than $18 million after this season, throwing the Rockets future cap flexibility in jeopardy.</p>
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<p>However, with Green playing fairly well, a team might be willing to take on his contract and forward the Rockets an asset and an expiring contract in return for Asik. Who might that team be? The deal most often discussed had the Philadelphia 76ers sending the Rockets a piece like Spencer Hawes, the Rockets sending Asik to the Celtics, and the Celtics moving Green to the 76ers.</p>
<p>However, as Stein notes, the Sixers appear to also be in the hunt for a direct Asik trade. Daryl Morey values Asik <i>extremely </i>highly, and it would make sense that Hinkie would as well. If there is a team that would pay full value for Asik, it might be the Sixers. If they are willing to part with Hawes, who would fit in well behind Howard and next to him, the Rockets could find a deal with them.</p>
<p>Of course, the Rockets are almost certainly not limiting themselves to negotiations with two teams at this point and will discuss deals with myriad teams before ultimately making their decision tomorrow afternoon. At long last, the finish line is close on the Omer Asik era.</p>
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https://www.thedreamshake.com/2013/12/17/5222150/nba-trade-rumors-2013-omer-asik-houston-rockets-boston-celtics-philadelphia-sixersPatrick Harrel2013-12-17T09:00:04-06:002013-12-17T09:00:04-06:00SB Nation Theme Day: NBA Trade Season
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<p>In the first SB Nation NBA theme day of the season, we look at the start of trade season, and where certain players stand. </p> <p>The NBA trade season started in earnest on Sunday as free agents from this summer became eligible to be traded, and we at SB Nation are doing an NBA Theme Day to celebrate. Today, check out all the SB Nation NBA sites as we talk about where our respective teams stand as the NBA trade season ramps up. In Houston, the Rockets seem to be one of the most likely teams to be active in the coming days, with Omer Asik almost certainly being traded and other players like Jeremy Lin, Donatas Motiejunas, and Greg Smith also potentially moved.</p>
<p>Let's look at the Rockets current situation and what they might do in the coming days and months.</p>
<h4>What are the Rockets' needs?</h4>
<p>In the early going, the Rockets have been crushed by injuries, but their depth seems to be holding up fairly nicely. Still, the Rockets have one big need and that is a strong defensive wing to add to the rotation. Since coming to the Rockets, James Harden has never had a competent backup, and that has really hurt the Rockets. With Chandler Parsons continuing to assume a larger offensive role, his defensive effort has slipped, and neither Omri Casspi or Francisco Garcia are going to lock anyone down on the defensive end.</p>
<p>Though defensive wings are always at a premium, I would not be surprised to see a defensive wing included in any deal the Rockets make in the near future. It's clear that they need one.</p>
<p>Other than that, the Rockets have their bases fairly well covered. A veteran big man to add to the mix in the front court would be welcomed with open arms, but the team has a three-headed point guard playing well, a young power forward in Terrence Jones that's exceeding expectations, and recently welcomed Greg Smith back into the rotation. With everyone healthy, there aren't many holes on this roster.</p>
<h4>Who could be moved?</h4>
<p>The first and obvious choice here is Omer Asik, who will likely be moved by Thursday afternoon. Asik has been on the block for months, and the Rockets would prefer to have the ability to trade any player they get back for Asik in a deal at the trade deadline. If they complete a deal by the 19th, they could repackage any asset they get in that trade with other players at the trade deadline.</p>
<p>Asik will almost certainly be traded, but the question of where has yet to be answered. Philadelphia has been a much-talked about destination, but he could also be on his way to Charlotte, Boston, Phoenix, or a number of other cities by Thursday. With teams desperate for a strong defensive big man, the market for Asik's services will be robust.</p>
<p>Now, turning away from the obvious candidate we get to Jeremy Lin. Brandon made a good point in the comments a few days ago that whenever any trade rumors come up about the Rockets, people usually are interested in discussing them, but when something comes up about Lin, people reject the entire idea as nothing more than a sick joke.</p>
<p>The Alan Hahn comment on the radio may not be the holy grail of reports, but it is also not without value. The Rockets have been rumored to be willing to move Jeremy Lin for months, and the notion that the Rockets would be willing to give up Lin should not be an outrageous one. Daryl Morey prizes flexibility over almost everything, and if he were able to move Lin for an asset and an expiring contract, he would be in a remarkably enviable position.</p>
<p>It's a deal that would require an immense about of confidence in Patrick Beverley and Aaron Brooks, but dismissing the idea out of hand because of some attachment to Lin is unreasonable. The Rockets have proven time and time again that they are able to produce point guards, and it's not clear whether paying Lin $8.4 million on the cap each of the next two seasons is the most effective use of their resources. If they can reallocate that money elsewhere, they might consider it.</p>
<p>Moving Lin is far less likely than the seemingly inevitable Asik deal, but it certainly is a possibility. Lin is an excellent player for the Rockets but he is far from irreplaceable.</p>
<h4>When is all of this going to happen?</h4>
<p>The next two days are going to be mighty interesting for Rockets fans. Omer Asik is going to be on the move in the next 48 hours, but it's not clear where quite yet. Keep your ears to the ground on that one.</p>
<p>And if the Rockets make another move, it will likely be at the trade deadline. There modus operandi is to wait as long as possible to get more time to evaluate themselves and opposing teams before calculating their next move, and I see no reason why they would change that position this year. Expect to see a deal or two at the deadline as well as a deal in the next two days.</p>
https://www.thedreamshake.com/2013/12/17/5219134/nba-trade-rumors-2013-houston-rockets-omer-asik-jeremy-linPatrick Harrel2013-12-15T13:29:56-06:002013-12-15T13:29:56-06:00Report: Asik trade starting to take shape
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<figcaption>Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Jonathan Feigen shed a lot of light on what the Rockets potentially could get back in an Omer Asik deal, and it appears as though a three team deal is likely. </p> <p>When Omer Asik asked for a trade for the second time in a few months just two weeks into the season, Rockets fans waited with baited breath towards the trade deadline to see what the return in an Asik deal might be. Now, with the trade season kicked off as potential free agents are eligible to be dealt, the Rockets begin their reported four day window to make a deal, with an eye towards repackaging anyone they receive back in a deal at the trade deadline.</p>
<p>To this point, however, we have not known much about where Asik was heading or what the return in such a deal would be. Many reported that Morey preferred to send Asik to the Eastern Conference, others noted that the Pelicans and Bucks had dropped out of the running for him, and the Bobcats were reportedly propositioned by Morey in a deal that would've netted the Rockets two first rounders and a right to swap in the future. Today, Jonathan Feigen wrote a <a href="http://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/rockets/article/Rockets-Asik-trade-situation-coming-into-focus-5065660.php?t=72899466c4f992f472" target="_blank">major piece in the Houston Chronicle</a> that sheds a great deal of light on the trade discussions. Let's dig into it.</p>
<h4>What do the Rockets want?</h4>
<p>As you can probably imagine, Terrence Jones' emergence at the power forward spot has changed things. The Omer Asik trade process appeared to be a search for a power forward when it first started, but with Jones playing at a high level, the Rockets can afford to diversify what they seek in a deal. Instead, the Rockets are looking for "either a strong defensive wing who can catch-and-shoot, a power forward who can fill in as a backup center, or expiring contracts that come with first-round picks - or some combination of those assets."</p>
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<p>Ever since the Rockets acquired James Harden last October, they have been searching for a solid backup guard who can spell Harden and play good defense. The Rockets don't really have a strong wing defender outside of Ronnie Brewer, who is very limited otherwise, and thus it makes sense to see if they can get a bench wing to come in and slow down opposing shooting guards and help Harden out on the defensive side of the ball.</p>
<p>The power forward desire is self-explanatory as the Rockets' front court would get very thin in a hurry if they dealt Asik, but the draft picks are perhaps the most intriguing part of any Asik trade. The Rockets have all their draft picks for the future, as well as a number of surplus second rounders, and if they can land a premium draft pick for Asik or a pair of mid-late first rounders, they will put themselves in a position to make a big move down the road or add some youth to an already young and talented roster.</p>
<p>The Rockets reportedly asked the Bobcats for two first rounders for Asik, and while I can't imagine any team giving them a pair of lottery picks, I could see someone giving up one late lottery pick for him. If they moved Asik for expiring contracts and a pick, they would also just be a Jeremy Lin trade away from securing near-max cap space for the summer. This summer is of course the year that LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh, and Dwyane Wade could all becomes free agents, so having the flexibility to at least check out your options is a valuable asset.</p>
<h4>What is the deal going to look like?</h4>
<p>Feigen notes that the Rockets do not have a "deal in place" as was speculated across the league yesterday, but that Morey has a "deal he is willing to take" if nothing else comes to fruition on Thursday. Essentially, he is saying what has been reported elsewhere that the Rockets have a deal they are shopping around to see if they can do better.</p>
<p>That deal that Morey is seeking out will likely be "a pretty complicated, three-way deal" with "a lot of moving parts," Feigen's source notes. Instead of the rumored Thaddeus Young deal with Philadelphia, any trade made with Sam Hinkie and the 76ers would likely either see Young sent elsewhere, or Spencer Hawes sent to Houston.</p>
<p>Finally, Feigen dispels the notion that conference or money could hold an Asik deal up. He notes that Asik's contract, while expensive next year, has serious savings, and that Morey is not as concerned with trading Asik to the East as has been depicted in the media.</p>
<p>Both of these ideas jibe with the Rockets mentality. If the Rockets can get a better deal in the Western Conference, it makes sense to take that deal. Asik may make another team better in the short run, but if the Rockets think they can come out on top in the long run, they might as well make the trade. And on the money aspect of things, Asik is due $15 million next year, but is making just over $5 million this year. Any team that acquires him soon and has to pay the balloon payment next year also gets the savings of more than $2 million for the rest of the season.</p>
<h4>What's the timeframe on a deal?</h4>
<p>One last note on the article is that the Rockets don't believe Asik is patient enough to wait until the trade deadline, and that they have imposed a quasi-hard deadline of December 19th themselves. This deadline has a few advantages. By making an Asik deal early in the season, the team acquiring him can save money versus his cap hit for a greater period of time, the Rockets can remove a distraction from their roster and move forward with a new player, and any player they acquire can be repackaged with other players before the trade deadline.</p>
<p>In every sense of the phrase it's a win-win. Both sides want a divorce, and there's no reason to prolong the process. Omer Asik will be missed, but his time has come.</p>
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https://www.thedreamshake.com/2013/12/15/5213302/omer-asik-trade-rumors-houston-rockets-2013Patrick Harrel2013-12-15T12:00:04-06:002013-12-15T12:00:04-06:00Breaking down potential Asik trade targets
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<p>Where is Omer Asik headed? We attempt to answer that question as we breakdown all his potential landing spots.</p> <p><strike>The Day of Reckoning</strike> December 19th is less than a week away, which means Daryl Morey has roughly 5 days to orchestrate a trade for Omer Asik. There's no mystery what Omer Asik can bring to a team, he's a large 7 footer who will anchor your defense, grab double digit rebounds, set some of the best screens in the league, and finish around the rim. To put it more simply: He's valuable.</p>
<p>Sadly for the <a href="https://www.thedreamshake.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Rockets</a> (and Daryl's dream of having two top 5 defensive centers) he wants to start and his cap hit is 8.3 million a year. The Rockets cannot afford to pay a guy about 20 million over 2 years to fake injuries and moan on the bench. I firmly believe that if Omer was okay with coming off the bench we wouldn't be trying to move him, but the situation is what it is.</p>
<p>In his recent Omer Asik article, Zach Lowe describes Morey as holding an auction for who gets the elite defensive and rebounding center. With that said, I'm going to speculate on what offers could be out there for Omer Asik and what they would mean for the Rockets. <i>Note: These are not in any particular order.</i></p>
<p><b>The Power-Forwards:</b></p>
<p><b><span>Paul Millsap</span></b></p>
<p>Millsap makes a lot of sense as a potential target in an Omer Asik deal. First of all, he's a reliable power forward, which the Rockets' haven't had since Luis Scola. Millsap would fill that void for the Rockets while allowing <span>Terrence Jones</span> to be a spark plug off the bench and making him a movable asset at the same time. On the court Millsap excels as the roll-man, shooting 58.3% (28-48) and averaging 1.22 Points Per Play (7th in the league).</p>
<p>Additionally, Millsap is a good enough 3 point shooter. He shoots 33% from the corners and 59% from wing 3 pointers. Overall, he shoots 50% on 3s which aren't from the top of the key (an area which he struggles in).</p>
<p>On the defensive side of the ball, he is very good in against post ups and the pick and roll. He ranks 35th in the league against the post up, holding his opponents to 40% shooting and .77 PPP. Against the pick and roll he ranks 17th in the league holding the opposing big man to just 48% shooting and 1.03 PPP.</p>
<p>Of course, there's the issue of money. His contract is perfect for the Rockets' long term plans. He is owed 19.5 million over the next two years and becomes a free agent in 2015. Hypothetically, the Rockets could trade for Millsap and in 2015 when he and Lin come off the books, they can sign a third star to pair with Howard and Harden. Then they can follow that up by signing Parsons above the salary cap. BANG.</p>
<p>From the Hawks perspective, trading for Asik would give them a dimension they lack. He would give them elite rebounding and defense while moving Horford back to his natural position. It's a win-win trade: The Rockets would solidify their starting lineup and improve their bench while the Hawks make their move to join the <a href="https://www.indycornrows.com/" class="sbn-auto-link" style="background-color: #ffffff;">Pacers</a> and <a href="https://www.hothothoops.com/" class="sbn-auto-link" style="background-color: #ffffff;">Heat</a> as the East's Elite.</p>
<p>Millsap does come with some issues, however. First of all, he shoots way too many mid-range shots. About 33% of his shots come from beyond 8 feet but in front of the three point arc where he only shoots 36.5%. That's awful. On spot-ups, Millsap ranks 138th in the league shooting 39% and averaging .9 PPP. Millsap also isn't an effective isolation player, averaging .7PPP, shooting 38%, and turning the ball over on 18.5% of his isolations. If Millsap were to cut down on isolations and mid-range shots, he could be one of the more efficient power forwards in the game. Still, despite these weaknesses, they are definitely able to be fixed with coaching, practice, and being inserted into an offensive system which tries to minimize inefficient shots.</p>
<p><b><span>Thaddeus Young</span></b></p>
<p>I watch (and enjoy) way too much 76ers basketball than I care to admit. It's kind of a problem. They're the Hipster-Rockets and it's awesome. However, it's no secret that the 76ers suck and that they're trying to tank away this season. Thaddeus has been one of their most consistent players, fitting in perfectly in their up-tempo system, and thus allowing the 76ers to win more games. Getting rid of him for Asik could make them worse right now while opening up future cap space for the future.</p>
<p>Offensively, Thaddeus is great in the pick and roll, ranking 5th in the league by averaging 1.25 PPP and shooting 58.3%. Just like Millsap, he would make an effective partner to both Harden and Lin in the pick and roll. Young also excels in getting shots near the rim, accumulating 183 (61.5% of his shots) of them so far this season where he shoots 57.5%. He is also great off the ball, finding the open holes in the defense around the rim for easy baskets. On top of all that, his variety of close floaters, layups, and crafty push shots make him into an effective scorer around the basket.</p>
<p>Defensively, he is very good against spot-up shooters, holding them to 30% shooting and .73 PPP. Lastly, and this is a small part of his game which I love, is his ability to put the ball on the court right after collecting it. This makes him an effective break starter after a defensive rebounder, slasher off the pick and roll, and finisher off offensive rebounds. Thaddeus would be a very good fit on this Rockets team. Think of Terrence Jones, but just better.</p>
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<p>Thad doesn't come without his problems, either. Synergy points out that he struggles in defending the post as well as the pick and roll. He allows his opponents to shoot above 50% in both, something a starting power forward should never allow. SportVU player tracking data on NBA.com also shows that opposing players shoot 54.5% at the rim against Thaddeus. Thad is a young player, so there is plenty of room for improvement, also playing next to <span>Dwight Howard</span> instead of <span>Spencer Hawes</span> should allow for his defense to improve. The other issue trading for Thad is that he is due about $32 million over the next 3 years including a near $10 million hit in the 2015-2016 season.</p>
<p>Trading for Young would presumably lock up the Rockets' roster until the 2016 free agency and would make it difficult for them to make an impact in 2015 free agency. If the Rockets were to trade for Thaddeus, I think they would be trying to move him this time next year or figuring out a way to get him to use his Early Termination Option for his 2015-2016 season.</p>
<p><b><span>Amir Johnson</span></b></p>
<p>If you haven't heard of or don't know anything about Amir Johnson, it's okay. Here's the basics: he's a 6"9 PF (we love those here in Houston), plays for the <a href="https://www.raptorshq.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Raptors</a>, and is 26 years old. Trading for him would be a very "Morey" move because he's consistently overlooked despite having a few elite skills.</p>
<p>Firstly, he is amazing around the rim, shooting 68% at the rim on 119 shots. It gets better though because almost all of his shots he creates for himself off the ball. He uses his athleticism, soft touch around the rim, and odd hooks to be one of the most efficient players around the rim. Secondly, he minimizes the amount of midrange shots he takes. Only 17.35% of his shots come from 8 feet to the arc. Just look at this, tell me it doesn't scream MOREYBALL.</p>
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<p>He's also been great in his limited transition opportunities this season. He shoots 83.3% in transition, so putting him in an up tempo offense would definitely play to his strength. Last but not least, my favorite 2 parts of Amir's game are that he is a exceptional rebounder and and solid defender. Out of all players whose opponents shoot over 5 shots at the rim per game against them, he ranks 21st in the league holding them to 46.2% shooting. These numbers are very similar to players like Dwight Howard, Omer Asik, <span>Andrew Bogut</span>, and Josh Smith, elite company if I've ever seen it. Rebounding-wise, he is 3rd in the league in contested rebounding percentage (min 10 rebound chances per game). Amir Johnson might not be the "sexy" acquisition we all want, but there's no denying that he plays to his strengths and would make for a good addition to the Rockets.</p>
<p><b>The Power Forwards They're Not Going To Trade For:</b></p>
<p><b><span>Ryan Anderson</span> and Ersan Ilyasova:</b></p>
<p>It has been reported that both the <a href="https://www.brewhoop.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bucks</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/new-orleans-hornets" class="sbn-auto-link">Pelicans</a> have no interest in trading their stretch power forwards for Omer Asik. Although they would be good fits for the team, I think this is good for the Rockets because Terrence Jones has shown that the Rockets don't need a true stretch 4 to have an effective offense. Asik also doesn't make much sense for either team due to the Bucks tank-job (Well at least I think their plan was to tank this season) and the Anthony Davis-Omer Asik pairing that seems like it would go over about as well offensively as the Howard-Asik duo did.</p>
<p><b>The Teams With Picks:</b></p>
<p><b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/charlotte-bobcats" class="sbn-auto-link">Charlotte Bobcats</a>:</b></p>
<p>Zach Lowe mentioned in the article I linked to earlier in this post that the Rockets asked for 2 1st rounders and the rights to swap another 1st rounder in the draft from the Bobcats. If I'm the Bobcats I'm going to obviously say no to the Rockets, but the fact that there are ongoing talks is a good sign. Any lottery pick in the 2014 draft will be very valuable and future firsts are very good trade pieces. If the Bobcats and Rockets could agree to a deal which sends 2 picks to the Rockets with cap-filler, Daryl could turn right around and send those picks to another team for an impact player.</p>
<p><b><a href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Phoenix Suns</a>:</b></p>
<p>Phoenix owns 4 first round picks in the 2014 draft as well as two 2015 first rounders. It recently came out that they are willing to move some of their picks for a "big name player". <span>Omer Asik's</span> name might only be 8 letters, but he's pretty big and could make the Suns a playoff team this season. Expect Morey to try to acquire 2 or 3 of those picks and <span>Channing Frye</span> for Asik.</p>
<p>It should be noted however that the Minnesota and Washington picks that Phoenix own are top 12 and 13 protected. If Morey were to acquire these picks, it could be a few years before he is able to use them, so it would make sense for him to try to ship them right after they're acquired. The Suns also own both their first rounders for 2014 and 2015, the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Lakers</a>' 2015 first rounder, and the Pacers' 2014 first. I would be very excited if Morey could move Asik for 2-3 of the firsts (not including Indiana's). Expect there to be lots of conversation between the Rockets and Suns over the next few days.</p>
<p><b>The Others:</b></p>
<p><b>Spencer Hawes/<span>Evan Turner</span>:</b></p>
<p>Who aren't the 76ers trying to trade? Jeez, their whole team is movable. Spencer Hawes and Evan Turner have been playing outstanding basketball this season and Hinkie is trying to move them while their value is at its highest. Although I feel that this would not be receiving equal value for Asik, it would definitely strengthen the Rockets roster for this year and gives them an expiring asset in Hawes. Turner would be gone after this season because he's a restricted free agent and will probably get paid more than the Rockets' can afford. If Morey gets desperate, expect this call to be made to his old partner in crime.</p>
<p><b><span>Courtney Lee</span>/<span>Jordan Crawford</span>/<span>Brandon Bass</span>:</b></p>
<p>What would this post be without bringing back a Rockets fan favorite? Acquiring Courtney Lee would give the Rockets a needed "3 and D" guy off the bench who can be trusted to guard opposing shooting guards and small forwards for 15-25 minutes a game while not being a negative on offense. Jordan Crawford has apparently re-invented himself under <span>Brad Stevens</span>, and if the <a href="https://www.celticsblog.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Celtics</a> are looking to trade him while his value is high, pairing him with Lee would be a sneaky-good move for Ainge to make.</p>
<p>The other player the Celtics can pair with Lee is Brandon Bass. He's not a good fit for the Rockets, but there's no denying that he is a talented player who could be the 8th or 9th best guy on a contender. It would take some changes to his game, but he could be a decent bench piece for this team. Oh, and Courtney Lee would be a Rocket. Courtney Lee.</p>
<p><b>The Greatest Trade Proposal Ever:</b></p>
<p>AK2TheMax proposed this and because I instantly laughed out loud while noticing how much sense this makes, I asked him to write it up. Here's what he has to say:</p>
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<p>Rockets trade Omer Asik and a pick (Morey and Hinkie can haggle over which one) to the Philadelphia 76ers for a three-year lease on the Sixers' Eastern Conference spot and schedule. Since the 76ers are under the cap by more than Asik's contract amount, they technically don't have to send anything back to Houston. The Rockets can literally get any Sixers player back in the trade and it would still work. However, were they to just send Asik away, they would incredibly fall about $3 million under the cap, which gives them space to absorb a larger contract next summer or at the deadline this year.</p>
<p>Philly does the trade because it sends them to the West where they're less likely to stumble upon accidental wins. It also gives them a legitimate center that they would likely try to trade away for another first round pick. Or, they could try to hold onto him until they are good enough to compete in the East.</p>
<p>The Rockets would immediately be placed into the Atlantic Division and play the same schedule that Philly has left. The Rockets would likely cruise into the third spot in the East or maybe even the second (they sit 1.5 back of Miami right now). Furthermore, once their seeding is situated they could rest the starters late in the season and make a fresh run in the playoffs with their first round opponent likely to be punchless.</p>
<p>It would make total sense if it didn't make no sense. You sense what I'm saying?</p>
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<p><b>Conclusion:</b></p>
<p>NBA teams can't ignore what Omer can bring to their squad, and it's just up to them to give up the needed value to acquire him. The groups of players/picks above are all realistic options for an Asik trade, but if I were to predict which one is going to happen, I would lean towards Thaddeus Young because of Hinkie and Morey's previous relationship. With that said, I would prefer Amir Johnson, Paul Millsap, or an assortment of picks for Asik instead. It's hard to go wrong with trading a player who doesn't even suit up for your team, so anything the Rockets get would help improve their team. For now, let's just wait and see what magic Morey can pull off in the next few days.</p>
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https://www.thedreamshake.com/2013/12/15/5211096/omer-asik-houston-rockets-trade-rumors-2013Allen Ojeda