Disgruntled backup center Omer Asik may get his wish after all. Per a report by USA Today's Sam Amick the Philadelphia 76ers are potential suitors for the current Houston Rocket. Asik's issues arise from being benched in favor of free agent superstar center Dwight Howard, a former three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year. Howard is known for his dominating personality, and his relationship with his backup is irreparable.

If the 76ers decline to pursue the 7-footer from Turkey, the Rockets can explore other possible trade destinations including LeBron James's former team the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Atlanta Hawks. Philadelphia, Atlanta and Cleveland are all based in the NBA's Eastern Conference, which isn't by coincidence. The Rockets are concerned that if traded to a Western Conference squad, of which they are a part, Asik could be a thorn in Howard's side for many seasons to come. Asik is known around the league as a tenacious player with a penchant for lock down defense. He's a good player, but he only wants to play center and moving Howard to power forward never panned out. There is simply no room for Asik in the big state of Texas. Teams also may not have the money for Asik's contract. At least one team was turned away from Asik because of the way his contract has been structured for next season.

Unfortunately for Asik, Philadelphia or Cleveland are in grave danger of finishing without a winner record and missing the playoffs. Only Atlanta has a legitimate chance to play in June. Yet the Hawks' record of 12-11 doesn't exactly scream contender. The Rockets don't need Asik though, especially when you take into account their 16-8 record.

The Houston Rockets have a self-imposed Dec. 19th trade deadline for Asik. If they pass that deadline they may end up trying to move Asik again later on in the season. The NBA's Feb. 20, 2014 trade deadline is rapidly approaching. Teams will take a break for the 2014 NBA All Star Weekend that directly precedes the trade deadline. Any deal needs to happen as soon as possible to prevent a scenario where Asik rides the bench for the rest of the season. No team needs excess locker room drama, especially when Dwight Howard's fragile ego is involved.