Lakers deal Marc Gasol to Grizzlies for draft pick, but Gasol intends to remain in Spain
The Memphis Grizzlies acquired Los Angeles Lakers big man Marc Gasol on Friday, but don't expect him to play for the team.
Gasol was traded to Memphis for a second-round pick and the draft rights to Wang Zhelin, the teams announced.
OFFICIAL: The Lakers have traded Marc Gasol and a second round pick for the draft rights to Wang Zhelin.
Thank you, Marc, for making LA part of your journey. pic.twitter.com/S5EQ899CJU— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) September 10, 2021
Though Gasol was traded to Memphis, he's not expected to play for the Grizzlies. The team will reportedly work to release Gasol so he can stay in Spain with his family, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. The move indicates Gasol, 36, won't play in the NBA during the 2021-22 season.
Lakers brought in options to play over Marc Gasol
Gasol joined the Lakers last season, but failed to put up big numbers with the team. Gasol averaged five points and 4.1 rebounds in 52 games. Gasol missed time in the middle of the season after getting diagnosed with COVID-19. Gasol said the experience was difficult, and put basketball into perspective.
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Shortly after Gasol rejoined the team, the Lakers picked up center Andre Drummond. Both players saw time during the team's playoff series against the Phoenix Suns.
Drummond signed with the Philadelphia 76ers in the offseason, but the Lakers still wanted another big man to pair with Gasol and Dwight Howard. The team found its solution last Friday, bringing in DeAndre Jordan.
At the time of the Jordan signing, there were already rumors Gasol would not return to the Lakers for the final year of his contract. That report suggested Gasol would rather finish out his basketball career playing in Spain.
