Pau Gasol: Highlighting Possible Replacements for Injured Lakers Big Man

The Los Angeles Lakers are about to head into the All-Star break with a record close to .500 (25-28 prior to playing the Clippers on Thursday night), but will still be without Pau Gasol for at least a few more weeks.

According to Eric Pincus of the Los Angeles Times, the Spaniard will not need surgery for the torn plantar fascia on his right foot, but should still be out until mid-to-late March if the original timetable holds up.

If the organization is going to add a backup big man to soak some minutes while the former all-star is rehabilitating, now is the time to do it.

Let’s take a look at some of the best available options to replace Gasol with while he recovers over the next month or so.


Louis Amundson Now Available

After getting cut from the Minnesota Timberwolves and clearing waivers earlier this week, veteran forward Lou Amundson is waiting to catch on with a new franchise.

According to Ken Berger of CBS Sports, Los Angeles is one team that has already considered bringing in the 6’9”, 225-pound reserve.



Although his career averages are only 3.8 points and 3.6 rebounds, Amundson was a solid contributor for the Indiana Pacers during their 2012 playoff run and plays with the kind of heart that the Lakers need at this juncture.

While “Sweet Lou” wouldn’t be needed to contribute more than a few minutes a night, he could give some of the L.A. bigs a much-needed breather and inject some life into the second unit.


Kenyon Martin Still Waiting



It’s hard to believe that Kenyon Martin is still jobless, as the 12-year veteran is arguably the most skilled power forward available in free agency.

The 6’9”, 240-pound behemoth has the brute strength to bang inside and has a soft touch around the basket. That much is evident in his career averages of 13.0 points, 7.1 rebound...

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