Orlando Magics Acquire 7-footer Omer Asik

July 17, 2014
Written by Admin TOA
Published in Latest

NEW ORLEANS — The New Orleans Pelicans announced Tuesday an expected trade with the Houston Rockets for center Omer Asik, which now includes a third team, the Washington Wizards. The trade came after a near month-long agreement with the Rockets to acquire Asik, the 7-foot center who became expendable following the Rockets signing of Dwight Howard.

The Pelicans received Asik, Omri Casspi and cash considerations from the Houston Rockets. The Pelicans sent Alonzo Gee, Scotty Hopson and its protected first round pick in the 2015 NBA Draft to the Rockets. The Pelicans also sent Melvin Ely to the Washington Wizards.

However, swingman Omri Casspi is expected to be released by the Pelicans, allowing him to sign with any team, according to ESPN's Marc Stein.

The Rockets receive Trevor Ariza from the Wizards via a sign and trade. Asik, a 27-year-old from Turkey, averaged just 20.2 minutes per game while backing up star center Dwight Howard, but he averaged 7.9 rebounds a game. As a starter in 2012 before Howard's arrival, he put up 10.1 points a game and 11.7 rebounds.

The Pelicans will be hoping that Asik will make up a formidable front court with budding star Anthony Davis. Last year the team suffered multiple injuries, including a year-ending one for big-man Ryan Anderson.

Asik and Davis hope to form one of the best defensive duos in the league around the basket.

Last modified onSaturday, 06 May 2017 10:07

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