NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers Right to Explore Deals for Pau Gasol Up to Deadline

It's understandable that Kobe Bryant would be frustrated with the Los Angeles Lakers after numerous trade rumors have sprung up regarding teammate Pau Gasol. But the Lakers are doing the right thing by patiently waiting for more trade offers to emerge, and Bryant may find himself thanking the Lakers in the long run.

After the Lakers' 102-90 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, Bryant told reporters, via ESPNLosAngeles.com:

"

Pau, it's hard for Pau because of all this trade talk and all this other stuff, it's hard for him to kind of invest himself completely or immerse himself completely into games when he's hearing trade talk every other day. I wish management would come out and either trade him or not trade him.

I talked to [Gasol] a little bit about it. It's just tough for a player to give his all when you don't know if you're going to be here tomorrow. I'd rather them not trade him at all. If they're going to do something, I wish they would just (expletive) do it. If they're not going to do it, come out and say you're not going to do it.

"

Ironically, Gasol posted 17 points, 12 rebounds and six assists against the Suns. But I do see what Bryant's saying. There's no question that rumors can be distracting for a team.

Still, Bryant is missing the big picture. The Lakers have numerous needs across the board, particularly at point guard and small forward. By waiting for the best offer, they set themselves up better down the line.

Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated tweeted on Monday:

"

Kobe's right on Gasol: Trade him or commit to him. Problem is, Lakers can't. They will continue to explore deals right up to the deadline.

Lakers have so many needs (SF, PG, bench) that if Gasol can bring back something to fill those needs, they will deal him.

"

Bryant, Gasol and the rest of the Lakers need to suck it up for now. Simply reacting isn't going to do them any good.

In the end, it's about the team. And Lakers management is doing what's best for the team by continuing to listen to offers for Gasol.