Pau Gasol is expected to become one of the most coveted free agents this summer, but the All-Star forward will reportedly consider returning to the Los Angeles Lakers next summer.
Gasol is not expected to get a contract similar to his current deal, but several teams have already expressed in acquiring him in the offseason, including teams who are looking to contend for a title next season.
The 33-year-old center said that he is excited to become a free agent this summer, saying that it will be the first time for him to be in that kind of situation.
Gasol insisted that resigning with the Lakers is still an option, but it is widely believed that likelihood of returning to Los Angeles for another seasons depends on whether or not Mike D'Antoni will still coach the team next season.
When asked by the Los Angeles Times about his future plans, Gasol said that there is still a chance to return with the Lakers next season, but he said that he will set aside "personal feelings" when he makes his free agency decision this summer.
"I think there's chances," Gasol said. "It depends what the conditions are going to be, and then I'll decide what's best. At this point in my career, I just have to be picky, put my personal feelings aside and look at the whole picture."
Reports previously indicated that Gasol will be interested in signing a one-year deal with the Lakers, but only if D'Antoni will get the pink slip this summer.
"I think the Lakers have a chance to keep Pau Gasol on a one-year deal, and I think that would be enhanced if D'Antoni is not here. It's almost like a choice between Pau Gasol and Mike D'Antoni," HoopsHype reported.
Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix previously reported as well that several teams, including the Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Charlotte Bobcats are expected to make a strong push to sign the veteran center.
The Memphis Grizzlies will also consider a possible reunion this summer, but only if veteran power forward Zach Randolph decides to sign elsewhere.
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