Pau Gasol is just one of many marquee free agents set to hit the market this offseason. As the Los Angeles Lakers continue to string together one of the worst seasons in franchise history, the center is realizing that departing might be the best option for him. The 13-year veteran still has some quality years left in the league and is open to every option this summer. However, Kobe Bryant predicts Gasol will stay put in Los Angeles.
The Lakers veteran blogged about his upcoming free agency run on his personal website. The center noted that in the end, his decision will come down to the potential of winning and not money. He is set to earn $19.3 million in the final year of his current contract. Gasol is not concerned about taking a pay cut or a smaller contract, he simply wants another shot at a championship.
"Honestly, I'm not ruling out renewing my contract, I'm just open to every option," Gasol wrote. "My decision will be based purely on sporting considerations. It couldn't be any other way. I want to be in a team with a real chance of winning a ring and where I can help to compete for it. I would like to win another championship. The financial side comes second at this stage of my career."
According to ESPN's Ric Bucher, Bryant is positive that Gasol stays put and signs an extension with the Lakers this summer. The star predicted the chances of his teammate returning next season is "8 out of 10."
That is a pretty strong prediction considering the year Los Angeles is having. Gasol has made note that he is open to change and thinks it could be a good thing for him. The veteran has admitted to considering a return to the Memphis Grizzlies where he could team up with his brother on the court. He called the idea extremely appealing, calling his brother one of the best centers in the league.
With 24 games left to play, the Lakers are not making the playoffs. The team is 19-39 and showing zero signs of life. Gasol's relationship with Mike D'Antonio is strained at best. Bryant may or may not return to be the same dominating threat that he was prior to his recent injuries. While the Lakers may try and pull Gasol back with money, that is far from his mind.
"I'm a free agent with no restrictions," Gasol wrote. "That means I can go wherever I want. The Lakers don't have any bargaining rights. My franchise has the chance of offering me more money and a longer contract, but that's not all that's going to matter as far as my decision."
Gasol stresses that he will remain focused on the Lakers for the remainder of the season. He is committed to helping the team win in the final months, but after that, all bets are off.