NBA Rumors: Lakers didn’t trade Pau Gasol because of negative fan feedback?
By Bryan Rose
The Los Angeles Lakers seemingly went back and forth on a trade that would have sent Pau Gasol to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Andrew Bynum a few weeks back, but eventually decided against such.
The Lakers were said to be asking for young talent like Dion Waiters and/or draft picks in the deal, something the Cavaliers weren’t comfortable giving up for Gasol – a free agent to be.
Many questioned why the Lakers didn’t move Gasol in the deal considering the financial benefit it would’ve brought Los Angeles. Sam Amico of Fox Sports says it was due to potential negative feedback from fans:
"According to sources, that’s why the Lakers were unable to work out a trade involving Gasol with the Cavs — the Lakers feared negative feedback if they didn’t get a scorer, center or point guard in return. The Cavs weren’t about to give up any of that, and neither will anyone else. Gasol is still a nice player, but keeping him (if the Lakers do), will be the second mistake."
Amico tends to be a bit hit or miss on his rumors and this one seems a little odd from the start.
I don’t know of many teams who make important roster decisions based off fan feedback, especially in regards to a player who’ll be a free agent at season end and possibly won’t be retained.
Regardless, quite the interesting scenario if true.