On Monday, Phil Jackson made his first move as President of the New York Knicks by trading Tyson Chandler to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Jose Calderon, Samuel Dalembert, and pieces. With the Knicks looking to replace Chandler, Jackson is now targeting Pau Gasol according to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne:
“Furthermore, one source close to the process told ESPN.com’s Ramona Shelburne that Jackson is planning to make a determined attempt to try to recruit his former Los Angeles Lakers center Pau Gasol to replace the freshly traded Tyson Chandler alongside Anthony on the Knicks’ front line, despite the fact New York is limited to offering Gasol less than $4 million for next season.”
With the Knicks well over the cap, they will only have less than $4 million to offer Gasol. Although Gasol will likely receive larger offers from other teams once free agency begins on July 1, he previously mentioned that he would listen to his former coach.
After winning two championships in three NBA Finals appearances, Gasol has been part of numerous rumors since the failed Chris Paul trade. While the Spaniard will consider remaining with the Lakers, he is looking for the best chance to win more championships in the final stage of his career.
While the Lakers have “strong interest” in re-signing Gasol, it appears their focus will be on signing LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony. The team will meet with Anthony once free agency begins on July 1 and are “hopeful” of meeting with James.
In 60 games this season, Gasol averaged 17.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks.