NBA Trade Rumors: Suns discussing possible Gasol deal
By Jacob Rude
Jan 15, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Pau Gasol (16) handles the ball against the Phoenix Suns forward Miles Plumlee (22) in the first half at US Airways Center. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Stewart-USA TODAY Sports
Here it goes again. The Lakers embattled big man Pau Gasol is finding himself amidst trade rumors, this time with a team in the same division. According to Marc Stein of ESPN, the Suns are discussing the possibility of trading for Gasol.
ESPN story going online now: Phoenix Suns exploring feasibility of trade for Lakers big man Pau Gasol. Link coming momentarily
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 2, 2014
The Suns have a situation similar to that which the Cavs had earlier this year. Emeka Okafor’s contract is currently insured for 80% of his deal, putting the Lakers on the hook for very little of his contract. Assuming Okafor is involved in the deal, which is most likely, the Lakers would be just over the tax thresh hold.
Most appealingly to the Lakers, the Suns could have up to four first round picks this year. The Lakers were looking for a first rounder in return for Pau during trade talks with the Cavaliers. The likelihood of obtaining a pick from the Suns is much greater.