NBA Trade Rumors: Pau Gasol to Bobcats?

January 31, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Charlotte Bobcats point guard Ramon Sessions (7) moves to the basket against the defense of Los Angeles Lakers center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

As is always the case this time of year, the silliness of NBA trade rumors will run wild leading up to the deadline. The most recent rumor is one a bit out of left field, as the Lakers and Bobcats have had discussions about Pau Gasol.

According to Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer, the two sides have held discussions about a deal involving Pau Gasol. Bonnell’s sources, however, downplayed the likelihood of a deal getting done. The Bobcats currently sit in the 8th seed in the weak East and could be looking for an extra piece for a playoff push.
Any deal involving Gasol and the Lakers likely would have to include Ben Gordon’s contract in return. Aside from Gordon, only Al Jefferson has a contract large enough to possibly match Gasol’s deal. Gordon’s deal expires this summer, also, which fits in with the Lakers plans.

The Lakers have been looking to move Gasol this year, as has been the case for many years, at the trade deadline. However, with such a large contract, it’ll be hard to find a deal for the big man.