A little over a year ago, former Los Angeles Lakers great Pau Gasol, agreed to a three-year, $22 million contract with the Chicago Bulls.
Things were starting to go sour in L.A., so it was just an ideal time for Gasol to go elsewhere.
Gasol made the all-star team last year, which was his first season in Chicago.
While Gasol’s production has took a dip thus far this season, he’s still one of the most consistent big men in the game today.
The 35-year-old is averaging 14.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game.
With Gasol having the opportunity to test free agency this upcoming summer, it appears that he already has his mind made up.
Gasol told CSNChicago.com Wednesday night after his 26-point, 19-rebound, four-block and three-assist performance against the Denver Nuggets that it’s “very likely” he’ll opt-out of his contract this summer and test the market.
“As long as I keep playing like this,” Gasol said. “I know I’ll have some options.”
The question now is, was it Gasol’s worth moving forward?
With the salary cap set to skyrocket in 2016 under the new TV deal, players like Gasol should be able to receive a big payday.
In the summer, the 7-footer will be 36 years old.
However, with so much money flowing around the association next summer, a contender that feels they’re one piece away may find it necessary to cash in on a veteran like Gasol.
Some teams that come to mind are the Spurs, Raptors and etc.
With Chicago having a plethora of bigs such as Joakim Noah (free agent), Nikola Mirotic, Taj Gibson and Bobby Portis, is Gasol worth breaking the bank for?