So, here we are in the most important games of the year and Gasol can't go. Ineffective in game 2. Out in much of game 3. Out in game 4. He was great in the regular season, but led to Noah being less effective due to having to play the 4 and taking away minutes from Niko to develop. This will likely be the most effective year we have him, given his age and mileage. Its a real shame he can't help us do battle in games that truly matter. He helped us get the 3 seed versus, say, the 5 seed, but that isn't worth as much as these games against the Cavs.
Jeez. Agree that Gasol was ineffective in game 2, but he had lots of company...like the whole team. And yes, he got hurt in game 3 and has yet to recover from that. This stuff happens and shouldn't lead to "buyer's remorse" over past decisions. I mean, when Noah sprained his ankle in the playoffs against the Sixers a few years back, did you regret that the Bulls signed him to an extension the previous season? Besides, while the Bulls aren't in an ideal position in their current series, they ain't dead yet and Gasol may still turn out to be a key contributor.
Let's hope so. If not, as nice as it was to see him have a resurgence in the regular season, it looks like the signing may have been more trouble than it was worth, at least for this year. One of the concerns about Pau was his age. Also, it led to a less effective Noah and 1/2 the internet is crying bloody murder about Niko not getting enough minutes. I'm hoping that the season keeps rolling and Pau is a big part of it. The sad thing is we really, really need him to be healthy and effective right now.
