Even though the team dragged his name through the trade-rumors mud for the last three years, and even traded him to the Houston Rockets in a three-team deal that was supposed to land Chris Paul in Los Angeles before David Stern intervened, the 33-year-old free agent still won't close the door on a return to L.A.
Per ESPN.com's Ramona Shelburne's report: "While free-agent forward Pau Gasol grew tired of the persistent trade rumors that followed him for the better part of the last three seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, he would give strong consideration to re-signing with the team, according to sources with knowledge of the situation."
ESPN.com's Dave McMenamin reported that the Lakers still want Gasol, but the team will pursue LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony first.
If the Lakers were to lure James and Anthony, Gasol would have to take a modest contract to return to L.A. He's smart enough to know that, and the fact that he won't rule the Lakers out suggests he's willing to take a pay cut.
Gasol is still a formidable big man who is worth more than a mid-level exception, even if the deal is only worth two years. Last season, Gasol averaged 17.4 points and 9.1 rebounds per game.
Because of his love for Kobe Bryant and the organization, Gasol could wind up being the biggest bargain in free agency.
A potential staring lineup that features Bryant, James, Anthony and Gasol would obviously be among the best, if not the premier starting unit in the NBA.
The Lakers could essentially have a Big Four without paying the price tag you might associate with such a grouping. Los Angeles will not be alone in their pursuit of Gasol.
Per Marc Stein of ESPN.com, the New York Knicks have designs of signing Gasol for a similar discounted rate to team with Melo, should he choo...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
