Report: Omer Asik will not be traded to the Pelicans or Bucks

The Houston Rockets are trying to move Omer Asik, and they want some value in return. So far, there hasn’t been any offers that we have seen, but we do know the Rockets have some hefty requests when it comes to their big man and a trade. Reports indicated that they want two first round picks in return for him, but they aren’t getting that. So now, they will look to get back a power forward–preferably one who can stretch the floor–and there are a few teams who have what they want.

The New Orleans Pelicans have Ryan Anderson, who was with Dwight Howard in Orlando, and that would be an ideal fit. Another team who has a “stretch 4” is the Milwaukee Bucks, as Ersan Ilyasova would be another piece that Kevin McHale and the Rockets could use.  Well, according to Sam Amick of USA Today, neither team will be in the race for Asik’s services:

"Yet while the New Orleans Pelicans (i.e. forward Ryan Anderson) and Milwaukee Bucks (i.e. forward Ersan Ilyasova) have also been tied to the Asik situation, two people with knowledge of both team’s dealings said they are no longer in the mix. The people spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the private nature of the talks. Things could change, of course, but it appears both teams have bowed out for now."

As time goes on, you would have to assume that the Rockets will have to settle for less if they want to move him. The list of teams who need a starting center is starting to shrink, and his value is decreasing. The Pelicans have Anthony Davis and Ryan Anderson, so they won’t need Asik in theory.

There is a small chance that he could stay in Houston, but all signs are pointing for a divorce. There are now two more teams who are out of the race.