Are Gasol-Boozer Trade Rumors Really True?

Tuesday 21 February, 2012 at 1:05 am T Lamont 0

lakers forward Pau Gasol seems to be affected by rumors of a possible departure.

This guy for Carlos Boozer?  Somebody's getting robbed...

Every year, it seems that Mitch Kupchak has a moment where he likes to stir up some drama.

In a season that saw him and the Lakers’ brass unable to pull the trigger on any deals that would have given Kobe Bryant and company a glimmer of hope at capturing their third NBA title in four years, a rumor of earth-shattering proportions has hit the media.

And no, it does not involve Mr. Bryant…but rather a player who proved to be just as critical to getting Los Angeles back into the championship hunt a few years ago.

That’s right – the ‘soft one’, (not so) power forward Paul Gasol.

There are rumblings that L.A. would be looking to stir up the pot by trading the multiple-time All-Star for Chicago’s Carlos Boozer.

And what is there to make about this potential swap?

Nothing, because this one would clearly have to be a motivational tactic.  While it’s true that Gasol’s scoring numbers have dipped this campaign (he’s two points per game below his career average, he still provides the length that gives an unconquerable advantage for teams with championship aspirations.  He and center Andrew Bynum are running reckless on the glass, combining to supply the Lakers with over 23 boards per contest.  They reject over 3 shots each game, and shoot over 50% from the floor.

The bottom line is this: they are good, they are long, and Boozer is maybe only one of the two.

This guy for Carlos Boozer? Somebody's getting robbed...

Boozer has never been mistaken for a shot-blocker and, although he’s listed at 6’9″, he doesn’t play nearly as big as Gasol.  And that’s saying a lot considering Gasol’s reputation as a push-over.

And then there’s the fact that Boozer has been one of the league’s most vulnerable players to injury, appearing in less than 60 games in four different seasons.

Boozer’s at his best when he’s able to stick those elbow jumpers, which is a skill that Gasol also has in his repertoire.  But Gasol throws in good interior passing, a back-to-the-basket low post presence, and shot altering ability for free.

Given those facts, it’s no surprise that Derrick Rose was in favor of this proposed exchange.

Naturally, the Lakers GM has backed his stance by explained that he will “actively pursue opportunities to improve the team for this season and seasons to come.”

But come on Mitch, even a blind man could see that this proposal would clearly not fit your statement.

Laker Nation, be afraid.  Be very afraid.


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