Feb. 5, 2013; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Los Angeles Lakers power forward Pau Gasol (16) is checked by the trainer after an apparent injury on the court against the Brooklyn Nets during the second half at Barclays Center. Lakers won 92-83. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports
Just as quickly as the Lakers hopes grew that Pau Gasol might be moved for a draft pick and cap relief, it so quickly appears to be vanishing.
According to Mark Medina of the LA Daily News, Gasol is expected to sit out for up to two weeks, pushing his return back to the trade deadline. At best, Gasol would be back following the All-Star break against Houston on February 19. The following day is the trade deadline, putting the likelihood of Gasol being trade in serious jeopardy.
The Phoenix Suns initially discussed internally the option of trading for Gasol before opening up discussions with the Lakers. Most recently, the trade talks were put on hold due to the reluctance of the Suns trading for an injured player.
While this seems like one badly timed coincidence, considering the Lakers run of luck over the last two seasons, this very well could be the latest in the long list of untimely injuries.