Sam Smith of Bulls.com reports that, according to Lakers insiders, Pau Gasol would like to play for the Chicago Bulls.
Smith reported the rumor in an article in which he discusses Chicago's offseason plans. He said that Gasol and Kobe Bryant were constantly at odds this season, and that they "basically can't stand one another."
"…it's no secret the Lakers want to move him," Smith said of Gasol.
The rumor is likely just that — a rumor — especially given the difficulties each team would have in agreeing to a deal. The main issue, according to Smith, is what it would take given Gasol's $18 million salary. The Lakers reportedly have "zero interest" in Carlos Boozer and the $47 million remaing on his deal, so Luol Deng would probably have to be part of any deal. And even then, plenty of pieces would also have to be sorted out, including what to do with Joakim Noah.
Also, as Smith points out, this would all have to come under one giant stipulation.
"That, of course, would be if the Bulls decided to start anew and provide a new and different kind of cast to play with [Derrick] Rose," Smith wrote. "It's maybe the biggest philosophical question to begin to consider these next few weeks."
As you can see, a lot has to fall into place before Gasol heads anywhere, especially Chicago. It's at least an interesting possibility, though, and one that — if you believe Smith's reporting — Gasol would at least be open to.
