The Phoenix Suns are one of the league's biggest surprises, even remaining firmly in the Western Conference playoff picture despite losing guard Eric Bledsoe to injury. As they've established their playoff contention credentials the front office has begun looking at options to bolster the current roster.
That upgrade might be championship-winning Lakers center Pau Gasol, who would represent a major upgrade over current starter Miles Plumlee. When asked in December about a potential Gasol trade Suns general manager Ryan McDonough said "We're obviously all looking for stars.
"And we feel like we can put together a package as good, if not better, than any other team in the league if and when a star becomes available." Part of that package is center Emeka Okafor, acquired from the Washington Wizards when they dealt Marcin Gortat. Okafor's deal is for $14.5 million and is expiring at season's end, which would be a major help for a Lakers squad searching high and low for cap room to help add players to join Kobe Bryant.
Gasol is averaging 17 points and 10.2 rebounds a night for the Lakers, who have been almost comically undermanned for most of the season. Just last night they were able to squeak out a win over the Cavaliers in which the began the night with eight players dressed. Two men were injured and two more fouled out-they finished the game with reserve center Robert Sacre playing despite being fouled out, his fouls going forward counting as technicals.
Still Phoenix is being cautious in exploring a Gasol deal, even though he carried Los Angeles for much of this season. He's currently injured and expecting to miss about two weeks with a groin injury.
Also, the Lakers are reportedly seeking another asset, such as a high draft pick, in addition to the expiring Okafor contract and the other pieces involved.
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