NBA Free Agency: As Dwight Howard (maybe) agrees with Rockets, Omer Asik wants out of Houston

The Rockets look to be nearing a free agency agreement with center Dwight Howard, and their incumbent center Omer Asik is not happy about it. According to Brian Windhorst, Asik may force a trade as he has no interest in backing up Howard.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p>Rockets center Omer Asik has no interest in backing up or playing next Dwight Howard, according to sources. Could force trade.</p>&mdash; Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) <a href="https://twitter.com/WindhorstESPN/statuses/353283007282552833">July 5, 2013</a></blockquote>

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Asik had something of a break out season in Houston this year after backing up Joakim Noah early in his career. Averaging 10.1 points, 11.7 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game. How Asik averaged 10.1 points per game whenever he can barely catch a basketball is beyond me, but he's easily on the short list of best defensive centers in the NBA. He moves extremely well on the perimeter, and is tough in the post and around the rim.

Windhorst then goes on to report that multiple sign-and-trade scenarios are possibilities, including both to the Lakers for Howard himself and to Atlanta for Josh Smith.

There haven't been any new reports linking the Cavaliers to Asik, but one has to assume that Chris Grant will at least make a call in an attempt to acquire Asik. I think the odds are very unlikely, but it's worth a shot. He'd be an excellent fit next to Anthony Bennett due to his defensive acumen. Plus, he only turned 27 yesterday so he could be something of a long-term fit if it works out.

Would you guys be happy with Asik even though he has a $15 million salary next season -- even though it's only an $8 million cap hit?