NBA Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers’ Pau Gasol talks free agency

Just prior to last week’s trade deadline, rumors swirled that Los Angeles Lakers’ power forward Pau Gasol would be dealt.

The Lakers are going nowhere, Gasol is aging and in the final year of his deal and a few teams, including one with several assets, the Phoenix Suns, showed great interest.

However, Gasol was not traded and although he is relieved, he admitted he wants to play for a contender  via his official blog (and translated by Hoops Hype).

“Options open,” Gasol Said. “Honestly I’m not ruling out renewing my contract, I’m just open to every option. 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.”

Gasol is interested in returning to the Lakers, but just because they can offer him the longest contract and most money, that won’t be all that he thinks about when making a decision.

“I’m a free agent with no restrictions. That means I can go wherever I want,” Gasol explained. “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, 33, is averaging 17.0 points, 10.1 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.5 blocks per game this season.