The Houston Rockets have traded Omer Asik to the New Orleans Pelicans for a 2015 first-round draft pick. This move is the first of many that will help teams shed enough salary cap room to make a run at both LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony.
The Rockets have been trying to find a trade partner for Asik since acquiring Dwight Howard last season, but now trading him has a whole new purpose for Houston. By trading Asik to the Pelicans, the Rockets have freed up a large sum of money that they will now attempt to use on Anthony and/or James.
The Rockets will now attempt to trade Jeremy Lin to complete their exodus of salary before the draft and free agency begin. If Hosuton can get rid of Lin’s contract, they will be set up with close to $16 million to play with in the free agency period.
Its seems likely that the Rockets will be major players in the free agency period regardless if they land James or Anthony. The Pelicans on the other hand grab a very serviceable big man to pair with All-Star Anthony Davis.
Asik averaged 10.1 points, 11.7 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in his one full season with the Rockets as his 2013-14’ was cut short with a series of injuries. The Rockets also sent over $1.5 million to the Pelicans as part of the trade.
The trade cannot official until July 10, the NBA Draft is Thursday night and free agency officially begins July 1.
Pick to HOU has Lowry-style reverse protections, per source. NOP keeps if in top 2/3 of lottery, and if it's 20-plus. In b/w, goes to HOU
— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) June 26, 2014
Win-win for both. Rockets clear cap space to pursue Melo/LeBron. Pelicans get a strong rim protecter/rebounder to protect Anthony Davis. — Chris Mannix (@ChrisMannixSI) June 26, 2014
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