The NBA trade deadline is finally here and for Throwback Thursday, here is a look back to one of the most notable trades to happen in NBA history.
Pau Gasol came up in trade rumors this year for the Bulls as the trading deadline approached and that was not the first time that the forward has been mentioned in deals. During his time with the Lakers, Gasol came up in trade talks numerous times and he also was part of one of the most notable moves in league history. The Los Angeles Lakers acquired Gasol back in 2008 ahead of the trade deadline and he ended up helping the team have one of their best runs in franchise history.
Gasol was acquired from the Memphis Grizzlies along with a second-round pick in the 2010 NBA Draft for Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie and the draft rights to his brother, Marc Gasol. The Grizzlies also acquired two first round picks in the deal. At the time of the trade, Gasol was the most beloved player in Grizzlies franchise history and many wondered if the team made a mistake dealing him.
Looking back now, getting Marc Gasol in the deal was plenty fair, but at the time Marc had not yet established himself as one of the best players in the NBA. Pau on the other hand was considered to be one of the best players in the league at his position and his move to the Lakers automatically made the team a favorite to win the NBA championship.
Gasol helped lead the team to the finals in 2008, where the team lost to the Boston Celtics in six games. The following season Gasol and the Lakers won the NBA title, which the first championship for Gasol. Gasol was a huge factor for the team during the season, averaging 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists for the Lakers. Gasol helped the Lakers win a second straight title the following season, beating the Celtics in seven games. Gasol had 19 points and 18 rebounds in Game 7 to help the Lakers win the title.
Gasol was one of the biggest trade deadline acquisitions in NBA history and the results of him coming to Los Angeles make him an all-time trade deadline name to remember.