Over the past few days, the main topic of discussion surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers has been the trade rumor involving Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum. Gasol being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Bynum appeared to be a done deal late on Saturday night, but then reports of the deal being done were denied by the Lakers.
Although the trade hit a snag or fell through at some point on Saturday, many expected the trade to be finalized on Sunday before the game against the Denver Nuggets. That didn’t end up happening and now uncertainty looms with Gasol still having no idea if he’s played his last game with the Lakers.
Following the loss to the Nuggets, Gasol talked to the media and let it be known that he’s received no clarity on the situation via Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
Pau Gasol says he hasn't gotten clarity regarding the trade talks.
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) January 6, 2014
With the Lakers and Cavs apparently heading back into trade talks on Monday, a deal to send Gasol to Cleveland is still in the works. Other teams have reportedly expressed interest, but the Jazz have been the only team publicly linked with Utah offering Richard Jefferson for Bynum.
Regardless of which team acquiring Bynum, the veteran center will be immediately waived. Bynum has reportedly expressed interest in signing with the Los Angeles Clippers or Miami Heat once a free agent after the dust settles.
As for Gasol, the two-time NBA champion may be nothing more than a half-season rental for the Cavs. Gasol has considered the idea of returning to the Memphis Grizzlies in the off-season to play alongside Marc Gasol on his former team to finish his NBA career. Although Gasol may ultimately end up back in Memphis, his immediate future is uncertain to say the least.
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