NBA Trade Rumors: Pau Gasol Will Thrive Despite Trade Talks

The Lakers have used Pau Gasol as trade bait recently, but the rumors won't prevent him from returning to his dominant ways.

After a horrid ten-game stretch during the playoffs, L.A. tried to ship Gasol to the Houston Rockets as part of the infamous Chris Paul trade-that-never-was.

The deal was vetoed and Gasol is still a Laker, at least for now.

Although he is notoriously sensitive, I'm expecting Gasol to use the rumors as motivation. Yes, he was awful in the playoffs last season. But let's not forget just how good he really is.

Gasol is unquestionably the most skilled seven-footer on the planet. He has a limitless arsenal of post moves, a feathery touch and excellent passing ability.

He's a matchup nightmare for most teams, as he lures shot blockers out of the lane and punishes smaller defenders down low.

Last season, Gasol's averaged 18.8 points, 10.2 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game on his way to an All-NBA second team selection.

He's made three consecutive All-NBA teams and was the final piece of the Lakers championship puzzle, leading them to three straight Finals appearances and back-to-back titles.

He struggled in the playoffs, but players of his caliber don't just lose their skills overnight. Everyone goes through slumps. His just happened to come at a bad time.

Gasol is exceptionally talented, and is a true professional. Many players slack off after being mentioned in trade rumors, but he's too honorable to succumb to such temptations.

Gasol will be motivated this season, hell-bent on proving that he's still an elite player. And that means the rest of the league is in trouble.