With free agency underway, the Los Angeles Lakers have expressed interest in re-signing Pau Gasol this summer. While Gasol will speak with numerous teams, the Spaniard is looking for a $10-12 million annual salary according to Yahoo! Sports’ Adrian Wojnarowski:
“So far, Gasol is still pushing for a $10 million-$12 million annual salary, league sources said.”
Interestingly enough, both the Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs have reached out to gauge his interest:
“Free-agent center Pau Gasol had a telephone conversation with Miami Heat president Pat Riley on Tuesday and could talk again with the franchise in the near future, league sources told Yahoo Sports.”
“The NBA champion San Antonio Spurs have inquired with Gasol’s agent Arn Tellem, expressing an interest, sources said, but the Spurs can’t become a legitimate suitor unless Gasol significantly drops his asking price.”
While all the focus will be on LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony, Gasol is one of the best big men available in this year’s market. Although he has been in numerous trade rumors these past couple of seasons, it has been reported that the Lakers believe re-signing Gasol could lure Anthony to help form a Big Three of their own.
— Lakers Nation Summer Sale Is Here! Get 32% Off Orders More Than $20! Use Code: #TheFuture —
At 34, Gasol is in the final stages of his career and his main priority is to win more championships. With numerous teams looking for a skilled post player, the two-time champion will garner a lot of interest and returning to the Lakers is uncertain at this time.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Lakers Mitch Kupchak On Coach Search And Free Agency