Los Angeles Lakers Pau Gasol Talks About Replacing Dwight Howard, Working In Mike D'Antoni Offense

Los Angeles Lakers center Pau Gasol won’t go as far as to say he’s glad Dwight Howard has left town, but he won’t shy away from expressing his glee over all the new opportunities it may afford him.

With Kobe Bryant’s status to start the season also still unknown, the Lakers may soon be more Gasol’s team than at any point during his tenure.

"I think I have the most uncertain period behind me," Gasol told reporters earlier this week. "The team has suffered a lot of changes, but as far as me, I am back in the position of a lot of responsibility, which I like, and I'm just going to focus on getting healthy.”

That starts with Gasol working to strengthen his knees and mentally preparing himself for the fast-paced rigors of coach Mike D’Antoni’s high-speed offense. Gasol has already had surgery followed by stem-cell treatment on both knees.

Coming to a meeting of the minds with D’Antoni might not prove quite so clear cut. Since Howard announced he was leaving for Houston, Gasol said he has spoken with Bryant, guard Steve Nash and even GM Mitch Kupchak about how the team will proceed and respond.

He and D’Antoni, however, have yet to speak. The 33-year-old, 13-year veteran had the worst statistical season his career, with his scoring average dropping from 18 points per game to 13.7. Still, the four time All Star sees the class as more half full than half empty.

"Now with Dwight gone I am the reference inside and I am more like I was a couple of years back when we made the finals three straight times and won two straight championships," he told reporters.

© Copyright 2024 Sports World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.