Potential Pau Gasol trades
By Daniel Nicks
Jan 29, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers power forward Pau Gasol (16) reacts against the New Orleans Hornets during the game at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Even the black mamba himself won’t be able to stall the trade talks surrounding Pau Gasol this offseason.
With Mike D’Antoni’s return to the Lakers all but set in stone, it would be dreadfully irresponsible to not entertain trading the two-time champion. I think we all know that’s not what LA nation wants, but it’s no secret D’Antoni has absolutely no idea how to properly utilize him.
Here are a few potential trade scenarios:
▶ Pau Gasol to Raptors for Andrea Bargnani, Landry Fields, Terrence Ross.
Seeing as D’Antoni notoriously needs a stretch-four in his offense and the Lakers desperately need serviceable depth, this grades out as a personal favorite.
It would ultimately spread the floor for the Lakers and allow it’s stars to operate to their fullest potential. The Raptors, on the other hand, would receive a seasoned veteran in Gasol, who’s winning pedigree would prove invaluable for a young team.
▶ Pau Gasol to Celtics for Jeff Green
From our Caleb Cottrell in a recent roundtable discussion:
"This trade would be good for both teams. The Celtics would get a good big, which would be needed if/when Kevin Garnett retires. The Lakers would get rid of Gasol’s huge contract, and they would get younger. This also would allow them to amnesty Metta World Peace."
▶ Pau Gasol to Timberwolves for Kevin Love, J.J. Barea
This isn’t quite as far-fetched as you might think, as Kevin Love already has ties to Los Angeles from his days at UCLA and hasn’t been shy with his discontent for Minnesota’s front office.
The Lakers, who we all know won’t shy from spending, could also be willing to take on the contracts of J.J. Barea or Luke Ridnour – even both.
▶ We want to know what YOU think, what potential trades we left out or if you think these trades are just completely bogus. Sound off in the comment section below and let us know.
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