In a game that featured plenty of Kobe Bryant (36 points), plenty of Andrew Bynum (17 points and 14 rebounds) and an improving bench (34 points), Pau Gasol scored 10 points on four-of-13 shooting. Though it appears pointing out a descrepancy involves splitting hairs, Bryant believes reports linking Gasol in a trade has made it "an emotional couple of days for him."
"Personally I don't understand that crap," Bryant said regarding the Lakers' effort to trade Gasol. "But it is what it is. It's important for him to know we support him. I support him especially. I just want him to go out there and play hard and do what he does best for us."
Gasol has acknowledged in recent days that he remains uncertain the Lakers will keep him. Though Gasol admitted feeling frustrated over what he described as an "erratic night", Gasol said that had nothing to do with his standing with the Lakers.
"At times it crosses your mind, but not exactly when you're playing," Gasol said. "Obviously when you're playing, you're focused and you try to do the best that you can. It's something you have to shake off regardless at any time at any point."
Pau Gasol is a puddle because of trade speculation. He's 31 years old and a veteran of 11 seasons. You'd think he would have developed some thick skin by now.
Once a soft player, always a soft player. I know… Gasol kicked some Celtic ass in the 2010 NBA Finals, but that was an aberration.
He makes Rajon Rondo look like Michael Jordan.
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