NBA Rumors: Rockets Would Regret Losing Marcus Camby

The Houston Rockets may have helped themselves in the NBA draft with Jeremy Lamb, Terrence Jones and Royce White, but losing unrestricted free-agent Marcus Camby would leave a gaping hole at the center position.

There is reason to believe Camby may be headed out of Houston this offseason. The Rockets have offered Omer Asik a contract and the Chicago Bulls will have three days to match the offer after signings begin on July 11.  

Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle tweeted on Monday:

"

For Camby issue could be timing. Has interest in Mavs, Spurs, Heat; Might not be able to wait 'til 7/14 for Bulls' Asik offer sheet decision

— Jonathan Feigen (@Jonathan_Feigen) July 2, 2012"

Keep in mind, Camby has expressed interest in returning to Houston, but he's also reportedly expressed interest in returning to the New York Knicks. Jared Zwerling of ESPNNewYork.com noted on Monday that Camby "could be open to the (Knicks') midlevel exception of $3.09 million."

On top of that, Camby's being courted by three legitimate title contenders next season: Miami, Dallas and San Antonio. He's 38 years old now and you'd have to think he's seeking a championship before he retires.

So, even if the Rockets end up with Asik, they may lose Camby.

Camby, despite being 38 years old, still averaged 9.3 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 19 games for the Rockets last season. He still fills the role as a paint protector and rebounder. He's also more experienced than Asik, a 2008 draft pick who has been in the league for two years and has just two starts to his name.

You add in the fact that the Rockets traded away center Samuel Dalembert during the draft and you have a potential disaster this offseason. After all, who would you rather have at center: Camby and Asik or Asik and Jon Leuer?

The Rockets better hope Camby's heart is still in Houston.

Follow me on Twitter. We can talk about the NBA together.