Report: Pau Gasol a 'real priority' for Spurs
Just as his younger brother Marc predicted, the San Antonio Spurs will reportedly be a major player in the Pau Gasol sweepstakes this summer.
"I'm told that Pau Gasol is a real priority for them," Adrian Wojnarowski told The Vertical podcast. "They tried to get him before he signed with Chicago. The Bulls were able to offer him a little bit more than the mid-level that year, I think the Spurs had a mid-level for him. They can maneuver in San Antonio and probably be able to offer him market value."
Marc said in April that he believed the Spurs were the most likely destination but acknowledged that he hadn't spoken to his older brother about his plans. Pau responded to the comments by saying the Spurs would be "an interesting option for me."
Gasol declined his $7.7-million player option with the Bulls on Monday and it is believed that he won't be returning to the Windy City.
The 35-year-old could step in at center for the Spurs, as it is unknown whether or not Tim Duncan will retire or rejoin the team for next season. Fellow center Boban Marjanovic is also a restricted free agent.
Gasol was an All-Star last season for the sixth time in his career. He averaged 16.5 points, 11 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 72 games.