While with the Lakers during the ‘07-‘08 season, he averaged 18.8 points and 7.9 rebounds. In ‘08-’09, it was 18.9 points and 9.6 rebounds; in ‘09-‘10: 18.3 and 11.3 respectively; so far this season: 18.8 points and 10.5 rebounds.
It’s not really any wonder how, with consistency like that in the center of a team’s formation, the Lakers have achieved so much success since Pau’s arrival.
This is all not to say that he’s the perfect player. Fans and critics often chide him for his lack of toughness around the basket against high-caliber teams, and sometimes, rightfully so. But regardless, it’s hard to dispute that without Gasol, the Lakers wouldn’t be in a position to contend for a three-peat this season.
This season’s trade deadline has come and gone, and while many other teams made significant changes to their rosters, the Lakers didn’t make a peep. Beyond the argument of financial restraints, the non-move seems to indicate that there is still confidence in this existing group to get the job done.
And if Pau’s continued consistency is any indication of such a thing, as is has been for three years now, success is coming to L.A. again at the end of this season.