Lakers interested in Bynum-Gasol swap?

Remember when the Lakers took Pau Gasol off the trade block? Well it hasn’t stopped them from talking trades for him in recent days. After news of Andrew Bynum’s suspension from the Cavs, Cleveland immediately started shopping the big man, whose contract is non-guaranteed up to January 7.

May 1, 2012; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bynum (17) and power forward Pau Gasol (16) smile after a basket during game 2 of the Western Conference quarterfinals of the 2012 NBA Playoffs at the Staples Center against the Denver Nuggets. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

According to ESPN, the Lakers are listening. In an effort to save nearly $20 million and get under the luxury tax, the Lakers have discussed an Andrew Bynum-Pau Gasol swap. The deal would likely signal that the Lakers have given up on this season, with Gasol being one of the few key Lakers to remain relatively healthy. However, it’s the long-term benefits that would pay dividends. The Lakers may be looking to avoid paying the luxury tax, which they have paid for six seasons in a row.

In order to complete the deal, the Cavs would have to send multiple other assets, whether that be a young player (Dion Waiters) or draft picks. Gasol remains the most sought after trade asset the Lakers have, as his $19 million contract will be expiring at the end of the season. However, teams are wary of giving up too much for the big man if he’s simply a half-year rental.