Is it even possible? I realize that the odds are that he stays in Memphis, but that team is aging and I have to think that they are nearing the end of their run, whereas we are just beginning to hit our stride (when healthy). If you put Gasol on a team with Dame and LA, I think we're a legit contender with the Warriors next year.
I think since Spanish players haven't had a good time here, and now recently with Batum's "we don't lose to Spanish players" thing we don't have a shot at all.
In an alternate universe where Ariza never ruined Rudy's career, and we kept Sergio, we'd be in the running... we'd also be a much worse team, but we'd be in the running.
I doubt he's that sensitive. Batum hung out with Claver as much as anyone, and non-Americans tend to stick together united by an outsider's perspective while slagging off each other. (Remember, Nic has a Spanish girlfriend as well.) No, the reason we'll have no shot is because the only place he'd leave Memphis for is San Antonio.
Why assume Gasol even likes Rudy? Do you like every other American? Trust me, sometimes when you're abroad the last person you want to see is someone from your country. (And Gasol has been in America since he was 15 anyway.)
Max we could offer is 20 million, right? Renounce the rights to Wes and Rolo, trade Nic for a draft pick. That's over 20 million right there.
Is it possible to clear enough cap space to offer him a max contract? Sure, I just can't imagine him choosing to come to Portland over staying in Memphis or going to a large market.
Only Americans get their precious panties up there ass over a statement like that. We won't get Gasol but that comment will have nothing to do with it.
Is it safe to say the blazers have a "big 2"? Because it might make some sense for an all star to join up with them. Whether that's gasol this year, or KD next year, its a possibility.
That's a different alternate universe. The one I'm talking about is the one where what I say is true... because it was a fucking joke you goober.
