Lakers Rumors: Carlos Boozer for Pau Gasol trade?

The Lakers will likely be losing out on Carmelo Anthony, joining a handful of other teams, including the Chicago Bulls. For the Bulls, Plan B may center around former Laker Pau Gasol. For the Bulls to get the Spaniard, it would require a sign and trade to offer a reasonable contract. The player Chicago is hoping to include in the trade, however, could cause some issues.

"Though the Bulls had yet to be told officially they’re out of the Anthony sweepstakes, the New York Daily News reported Anthony will make his Knicks’ announcement Thursday. That would intensify the Bulls’ pursuit of Gasol, and league sources indicated the Bulls hope to pursue sign-and-trade options with the Lakers for him involving Carlos Boozer‘s expiring salary.–K.C. Johnson"

In order for the Lakers to take on Boozer’s massive $16 million contract, the Bulls would have to include at least one first round draft pick, if not more. With the Lakers possibly aiming for a traditional rebuild, netting a couple draft picks as well as cap space for next year’s free agent class would be a nice get. Depending on the amount of first rounders included, it could also become trade bait (Kevin Love?)

The trade, however, would place Gasol with an immediate contender and make the front court of Pau and Joakim Noah one of the best in the league, certainly the best passing front court. However, Gasol could follow Melo to a team, depending on which team that was, as well as go to the Thunder, who have been pursuing him hard.

Which team do you want to see Pau with next season?