Asik working to adjust to Pelicans

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After playing extensively for Turkey in the 16-day FIBA World Cup last month, New Orleans Pelicans center Omer Asik hasn’t needed to concentrate much on conditioning during this week's training camp.

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''I’m just trying to learn the system defensively and offensively,’’ Asik said after going through his third practice session since Tuesday’s opening day of training camp. "It has been like a learning session, but so far its been going good.''

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'He understands the concept, but he may not understand the terminology just yet,’’ Williams said. ''But he’s picking up stuff quickly because he’s a smart guy. I was with him overseas (FIBA World Cup) and watched him play on his national team and he does stuff that make guys, who are not really good defenders, look pretty good.''

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Williams said Asik has ability to defend the post area without needing much help. Last season, the Pelicans didn't have that caliber of center to help Davis. When opposing guards penetrated past their first line of defense, they usually had an open path to the basket to score.

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