With the NBA trade deadline less than 48 hours away, rumors and speculation are continuing to heating up. Pau Gasol has been the center of trade talk since the failed Chris Paul trade in 2011. With the Lakers enduring one of their worst ever seasons, the team has continued to look for way to get themselves under the luxury tax line.
The Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns had been discussing a trade a few weeks ago and according to Basketball Insiders writer Alex Kennedy the teams will resume talks:
Rival executives believe the Lakers and Suns will resume trade talks, with Pau Gasol ultimately being traded to Phoenix.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) February 19, 2014
The same trade scenario may be on the table with Emeka Okafor’s expiring contract at the center of the deal according to Kennedy:
The executives believe Pau Gasol is the best player Phoenix can realistically get for Emeka Okafor's insured, expiring contract.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) February 19, 2014
Gasol has been looking toward free agency this upcoming summer and many expect the two-time champion to leave Los Angeles for a fresh start. The Lakers have been steadfast in their want for a young asset or first round draft pick in return for the Spaniard. The Suns were reluctant to give up a first round pick in a loaded draft class for a player that could leave them in the summer, but the chances of a playoff push might be too enticing to pass up.
With the Lakers eyes set on the future, the team should continue to look at all possible options to improve the team in the coming years. Pau is not the only player involved in trade talks as the Lakers have multiple players who are possible trade chips with one-year contracts. The team may look drastically different in the coming days as management looks to build for the future.
______________________________________________________________________________
2014 NBA Trade Deadline: Lakers’ Pau Gasol Responds To Latest NBA Trade Rumors