Pau Gasol is just one many big names hitting the free agent market this offseason. The long-time Lakers forward is considered one of the best available, which is why Los Angeles is making it a priority to try and re-sign him before another team swoops Gasol up. While Gasol has said he is not against remaining with the Lakers for another run, there is one factor that might be a deal breaker for the forward, Mike D'Antoni.
It is no secret that the mike D'Antoni and Gasol are not fans of one another. The two have taken shots at one another throughout the season. Gasol has criticized the Lakers head coach for his offensive plans and poor use of players. D'Antoni has criticized Gasol for criticizing him. They went back and forth in media comments that painted a pretty poor picture of their relationship. As D'Antoni awaits the fate of his future in Los Angeles, Gasol is going to let that be the deciding factor of whether or not he re-signs in free agency.
According to the Los Angeles Daily News, Gasol will not return if D'Antoni is not fired. While the forward has thrived as the focal point of the coach's offense, he is not interested in re-signing for another few years if D'Antoni remains. Gasol believes the Lakers will not be a championship-caliber team if D'Antoni has the clipboard in hand.
A reunion between Gasol and the Lakers is muddy at best without D'Antoni as one of the factors. Gasol has said he is doubtful he returns to the team, but is not ruling out the option. The forward is making $19.3 million this season and is not looking to take a steep pay cut in his next contract. However, the Daily News writes that Los Angeles will not be willing to pay a player close to that amount of money if they think his best playing days are behind him.
Kobe Bryant continues to voice his support for his teammate. The star has said multiple times that he certainly hopes Gasol comes back in free agency and helps him finish out his two years in Los Angeles. However, Bryant has said he will not be a recruiter for the Lakers so Gasol should not expect a phone call anytime soon.
Plenty of teams will likely be willing to pay Gasol a contract of his desire. The Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers and Charlotte Bobcats are on the short list of teams interested in the forward. The New York Knicks and Memphis Grizzlies will also take a strong look at the forward.
