According to Sean Deveney of Sporting News, the Lakers brass has been considering trade offers for Gasol for some time with the Spaniard in the final year of his contract.
Gasol’s recent sit-down with Scott Howard-Cooper of NBA.com about impending free agency—in addition to his notable struggles on both ends of the court—has apparently caused the team’s front office to consider a drastic move.
While the franchise would reportedly like for Gasol to remain in Los Angeles and potentially even re-sign, it can no longer afford to ignore his waning production on the court and what is being said off of it.
Shelburne and Stein found that while the Lakers have yet to hold any discussions with other clubs in regards to a Gasol deal, that could all change in an instant.
The 33-year-old is currently playing out the last season of his contract—worth over $19 million for 2013-14—and would be a valuable asset to both contenders and tanking teams.
Gasol made it clear that remaining in L.A. at a discount isn’t his absolute top priority this coming offseason, noting that money and the potential for another championship are just as important as being loyal to the team he has played for since being traded there back in 2008, per Howard-Cooper:
There’s different factors you have to take into account. The financial factor. That I’ve been with this franchise, for what I’ve been through, the loyalty I have to them. And also the chances of winning a championship. Those three are the most. What percentage I will give or prioritize, we’ll see when the opportunities come along. But I would like to first be in a position to win a cha...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
