Former Los Angeles Lakers’ forward Pau Gasol and the Chicago Bulls reached an agreement Saturday.
It hasn't been easy. After meditating it a lot I've chosen to play with the Chicago Bulls. Looking forward to this new chapter of my career
— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) July 12, 2014
Gasol is entering his age-34 season, making this free agency period likely the last opportunity for him to score a major deal. Gasol decided to leave the Lakers, a team in trouble with an aging Kobe and not many young assets, for a contender in the less competitive Eastern Conference in Chicago.
The Lakers made three straight NBA finals after acquiring Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2007-08 campaign. They won the latter two of those finals appearances, but managed just a 27-55 record this past season.
Despite the Lakers’ record Gasol had an impressive year. He neared his career averages with 17.4 points and 9.7 rebounds per game.
Prior to today, LAL offered Pau Gasol two deals: 2 years, $23 mill and 3 years, $29 mill per league source. He turned down both offers.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) July 12, 2014
Gasol missed several games down the stretch due to vertigo, but addressed the health concerns. "I feel great. My vertigo problems are finally over. I'm not physically frustrated or mentally tired," Gasol said.
Gasol’s move to Chicago signals a more competitive Eastern Conference next season, especially with Lebron James signing with Cleaveland.