The Rockets have put Omer Asik on the trade block and the Hawks are one of the teams that have had discussions about acquiring the center, according to a person familiar with the situation. The conversations were categorized as a part of the team’s normal due diligence.
No deal involving the Hawks was imminent.
The Rockets have put a self-imposed deadline of Thursday to move the center. According to several media reports other teams have been in trade discussions with the Rockets, including the Celtics, 76ers, Cavaliers and Trail Blazers.
Asik is due a balloon payment of $15 million next season as part of the deal he signed with the Rockets as a restricted free agent from the Bulls. According to the person familiar with the situation the payment would not be a deterrent in the Hawks acquiring Asik.
Martin, Ayon out: Cartier Martin (left ankle sprain) and Gustavo Ayon (left ankle sprain, left leg contusion) missed Wednesday's game against the Kings. According to coach Mike Budenholzer both are doubtful to play against the Jazz on Friday.
Martin suffered his injury during practice Tuesday. Ayon missed his fifth straight game with his injury. He missed the first eight games of the season with a right shoulder injury.
Brand contributing: Elton Brand had a key 17 minutes in Monday's win over the Lakers as the center had eight points, seven rebounds and three blocked shots.
“(I had) an opportunity to go out there and play and get into a rhythm,” Brand said. “I got open for a few shots. When you get one shot here, one shot there you don’t get into a flow offensively but you do what you can defensively, whatever it takes to help the team. I just got a few shots.
“I just bring energy, especially defensively. I just try to call out the other team’s plays because I’ve seen them all before. Communicate out there defensively. Offensively, play unselfish and help get the ball to the guys who are scoring.”
The Hawks are 8-3 in games Brand plays more than 10 minutes.
Part-owner in the house: Shaquille O'Neal, a metro-Atlanta resident and part-owner of the Kings, paid a visit to his team's locker room prior to Wednesday's game. O'Neal emerged as Kings coach Mike Malone was addressing the media.
“Turn Five coach, I’m ready,” O’Neal said referring to a set play.
“Turn Five going to you big fella,” Malone answered. “I have the uniform ready for you.”
Holiday cheer: Hawks players Pero Antic, Shelvin Mack, Paul Millsap and Mike Scott will visit Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Thursday. They will be part of a holiday celebration that will include arts and crafts, games, gifts and photos.
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