After months of trying to trade Omer Asik and clear salary-cap space, the Houston Rockets finally found a deal that works.
The Rockets traded the 7-foot rim protector to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for a 2015 first-round draft pick, multiple outlets reported Thursday. The deal ends rumors that the 27-year-old could be traded to the Boston Celtics.
The Rockets have tried to clear cap space to make a run at LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony during free agency this summer. Both stars have opted out of their contracts and will be free agents on July 1.
Asik is entering the final year of his three-year contract and will make $15 million in 2014-15. He averaged 10.1 points and 11.7 rebounds per game in 2012-13, but he saw his numbers and playing time decline last season after the Rockets acquired Dwight Howard.
Asik likely will play alongside budding star Anthony Davis in New Orleans next season.
