Rockets plan to keep Asik, Lin
Based on what Houston general manager Daryl Morey said over the weekend, guard Jeremy Lin and center Omer Asik should plan on playing in Houston next season.
In the aftermath of signing free agent Dwight Howard, there has been plenty of speculation that Asik wanted out because he did not want to be Howard's backup. And there was talk Lin would not be a good fit.
Over the weekend, Morey discussed Asik's value coming off the bench and Lin's ability to be a good fit with Howard.
Morey cited another important factor for the Houston faithful.
"The reality is James (Harden) and Dwight (Howard) want to play with Jeremy and Omer," Morey told the Houston Chronicle. "I've been kicked down to assistant GM. They're going to be here."
Howard expressed confidence that Asik will see the value and importance of being an integral member of the Rockets.
"Omer might not really see the total big picture right now, and I totally understand." Howard said. "He's a young guy and he wants to really be respected. I would tell him when I see him, 'You've done a great job on this team. I'm going to help you and this team get better.' He's a big piece to us winning a championship if we're going to make that run."
Howard paid tribute to Lin, too, saying he can help Lin become even a better player..
"I'm going to do whatever I can to make those guys' lives better. I realize how much they mean to this team."
