by Ryne Nelson / @slaman10
Amidst the signing of Steve Nash and persistent Dwight Howard trade rumors, Kobe Bryant seems to have changed his tune on the topic of Pau Gasol.
After asking the Lakers to “either trade [Gasol] or not trade him” and blasting Gasol for not being aggressive (again) in the Playoffs, Kobe told reporters on Saturday that he has his power forward’s back:
Kobe, answering a question from a Spanish reporter about Pau’s status with the Lakers: “As long as I’m there, he’s going to be there.”
— Brian Mahoney (@briancmahoney) July 21, 2012
Kobe’s conveniently timed reversal of tone must’ve been a relief to Gasol, as he tweeted: “Thanks Kobe! It’s a pleasure to play with you game after game.”
Gracias Kobe!! Un placer estar a tu lado partido a partido. Go Lakers!! #Equipo bit.ly/ON9zwt
— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) July 21, 2012
Kobe and the Lakers seem to believe Nash can reinvigorate Gasol to play like the best power forward in the League… for now, at least.