Houston Rockets: Not Planning To Trade Omer Asik

February 12, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Houston Rockets center Omer Asik (3) during the first quarter against the Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena. The Rockets defeated the Warriors 116-107. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

While almost everybody in Houston was excited with the news that Dwight Howard was coming on board, the current Rockets center was not.  It was immediately reported after Howard’s decision was official Friday evening, that Omer Asik did not want to stay in Houston.

According to Brian Windhorst of ESPN.com, Asik has formally asked for a trade from Houston so he doesn’t have to share the center position with Howard or be relegated to backup duty because of Howard’s spot on the team. However, Houston isn’t interested in sending Asik anywhere right now:

“Houston Rockets center Omer Asik has formally asked the team to trade him in the wake of the team landing Dwight Howard in free agency. But the Rockets have no plans to grant Asik’s wish, sources told ESPN.com.

While many Rockets players rejoiced at landing Howard last week and spread cheer on their Twitter accounts, Asik had a different reaction.

Shortly after Howard announced his decision, Asik was in contact with the team and asked to be moved. The Rockets, however, have turned away offers thus far and will continue to do so, sources said.”

Don’t be surprised if this is a just ploy by Daryl Morey and the rest of the front office to increase some trade value for Asik.