What the Houston Rockets Can do Over Offseason to Become a 55-Plus Win Team Next Season

Apr 28, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers power forward Pau Gasol (16) handles the ball against San Antonio Spurs power forward Tim Duncan (21) in game four of the first round of the 2013 NBA playoffs at the Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

The Gasol Question

A third option exists here, but it’s a more near-sighted approach. The Lakers may amnesty Pau Gasol, or they may trade him. The Spaniard is in no way willing to accept the card he was dealt by Mike D’Antoni this season, and barring the Lakers firing No-D Mike, the Lakers are going to be letting their 4-man go one way or another.

Gasol is a nice option due to his passing abilities. He would give the Rockets one more guy who could keep the blood of the offense flowing, but he is also nearly 33 years old.

At best, Pau may have two to three more seasons left playing at a pretty high level, but the Rockets would not be instant contenders by acquiring Gasol.

Gasol could be the best short-term option, but Morey is likely wise enough to realize that he doesn’t offer the best chances for the Rockets to have a guy that can hold the job long term.

That may be fine given the fact that D-Mo and T-Rob are still waiting in the wings. Gasol may even make a nice mentor to the young fellas.

It’s really the kind of decision that likely keeps Morey awake at night; and it’s hard to blame him…