It's hard to believe the Los Angeles Lakers are actively shopping Pau Gasol. But it's quite possible that perhaps the most offensively gifted post player in the game could be moved before the NBA trade deadline.
The Minnesota Timberwolves had already been rumored once. But it was the Houston Rockets that originally wanted to grab Gasol this offseason in the three-way trade that involved Chris Paul, and it might be the Rockets who end up finally getting him.
Sam Smith of NBA.com files this report.
Pau Gasol: He probably has the best chance of being traded among the current and former All-Star players. The Lakers are woefully short in the backcourt and with depth and athleticism. He was in that aborted preseason deal to the Rockets, and their interest is said to remain the most significant. The deal that’s been most speculated is Gasol for Luis Scola and Kyle Lowry. The Rockets are said to be high on Goran Dragic and Jonny Flynn to replace Lowry, and the Lakers desperately need a point guard under Mike Brown’s system. This is a deal, denied for now, that benefits both teams and seems likely to be made.
Chances of Gasol being dealt: 75 percent.
The Rockets have enjoyed the production they've gotten from Scola, but it makes sense they'd be willing to part with him to get Gasol--he's just that good. Lowry is tough though--he's been very productive and is clearly the player the Lakers want to get out of this deal. The Lakers would love to get a point guard that can produce and provide even a decent upgrade.
It's hard to see LA ever being able to replace Gasol, but if the Lakers are planning on making a trade, it's hard to do any better than obtaining Scola and Lowry out of the deal.
To discuss Gasol trade rumors with Lakers fans, check out Silver Screen and Roll. To talk about a trade for Gasol with Rockets fans, go to the Dream Shake.