In his exit interview, Kobe Bryant reiterated his desire for Lakers management to hold on to Pau Gasol since he gives the team the best chance to win.
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Since Kobe started on Twitter, he’s been very vocal in his support for Gasol since there have been several rumors surrounding his status with the Lakers due to the new collective bargaining agreement.
Kobe had this to say to the media:
“To me it’s a no-brainer. We need (Pau) to get where we want to go.” – Kobe on Gasol
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) April 30, 2013
“I talked to Mitch. I want Pau here. It’s not even a question. It’s not even a discussion. He gives us the best chance to win a title.”
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) April 30, 2013
This season was the toughest for Gasol as he averaged only 13.7 points and 8.6 rebounds as he battled through three different injuries this season. Under head coach Mike D’Antoni, Gasol wasn’t put in places to succeed and his offensive game struggled mightily.
However, Bryant didn’t mince his words on Tuesday suggesting that he hopes the core group of Lakers, including Gasol and Dwight Howard return for next season. Bryant did caution that he understands that there will be severe cap-penalties, but doesn’t want this past season to be his last ride with Gasol.
Since 2009, the two-time NBA champion has averaged 17.7 points and 10.1 rebounds as he’s spent the past six seasons in Los Angeles. It’s clear that Kobe and Pau have a special relationship as Bryant spent most of his exit interview pleading for Gasol to return for one more championship run.
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