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Report: Knicks Attempting To Trade For Rockets Center Omer Asik

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Rockets center Omer Asik is on the trading block, and the Knicks are interested.

New York has discussed acquiring the 7-footer from Houston through a three-team deal, a source told the New York Post. But the disappointing Knicks are long shots to land the big man, the newspaper reported.

Asik would be a strong fit in the 'Bockers' frontcourt, as power forwards Amar'e Stoudemire -- who may or may not be injured -- and Kenyon Martin are out for an unknown period of time. Center Tyson Chandler is set to return after breaking his leg in the fourth game of the season. As is always the case with injuries, it could take some time for Chandler to get back in the swing of things.

The Turkish former second-round pick is owed $5.5 million this season. The Knicks are willing to part ways with shooting guard Iman Shumpert -- Shumpert has been the subject of many trade rumors of late -- and small forward Metta World Peace in a deal for Asik, according to the New York Post.

Shooting guard J.R. Smith, who hasn't been nearly as effective as he was last season, can't be traded until January 15.

That doesn't bode well for the Knicks, as the newspaper has reported that the Rockets are looking to deal Asik by Thursday.

According to Yahoo! Sports, the 76ers, Hawks, Celtics and Cavaliers are the frontrunners to get Asik.

The 27-year-old, in his fourth season in the NBA, is averaging 4.4 points, 6.8 rebounds and 0.4 blocks in 18.3 minutes per game. The former Bull, who was drafted by the Trail Blazers, has played in 17 games this season and started eight.

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