Pau Gasol rumors: New York Knicks behind, not eliminated

Like most others, Los Angeles Lakers’ big man Pau Gasol is waiting for the dominoes to fall in free agency, but is still currently being courted by several teams.

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It always seemed like Gasol’s ultimate preference was to remain with the Lakers but his desire to play for a contender made the Lakers seem like a bit of a long-shot. However, after meeting with New York Knicks’ free agent forward Carmelo Anthony, the Lakers have expressed confidence in signing Anthony. If the Lakers were able to acquire Anthony, Gasol would almost certainly re-sign.

Of course, another option is playing with Anthony in New York if Anthony decides to re-sign. Gasol’s former coach, Phil Jackson, is the Knicks’ president while his former teammate, Derek Fisher, is now their head coach. Contenders like the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs are also in pursuit of Gasol and a potential contender, depending on how healthy they are, the Chicago Bulls, would also love to land Gasol.

According to Ken Berger of CBS Sports, the Knicks have fallen behind the Bulls, Lakers, Spurs and Thunder, but have not been eliminated in the chase.

Gasol would simply be giving up too much money to sign with the Knicks, but if Jackson can clear cap room with a trade (which is a long-shot), Gasol could very well wind up in New York.

Gasol averaged 17.4 points, 9.7 rebounds 3.4 assists and 1.5 blocks per game last season. He shot 48.0% from the field, 28.6% from beyond the arc and 73.6% from the free throw line.