Dwight Howard has insisted that he can work in unison with Omer Asik for the Houston Rockets this season.

The Rockets signed Howard in July and the move immediately prompted questions about Asik's role in the team, with some reports suggesting that he asked to be traded.

"For me and Omer to work is real simple," Howard told reporters. "If I get the rebound, he has to run the floor, be that first big to seal, try to get easy buckets. If he gets the rebound, it's the same thing.

"On the defensive end, I have the ability to guard fours. I've done it in the past. I like the challenge. I think me and him can play together.

"Even if he comes off the bench, I think that's great because the defense won't go down. He's a great defender. I think he's going to be great. I know he wants to win just like we all do."

Houston begin their season on October 30 against the Charlotte Bobcats.