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Hope you weren't thinking this new dominant Lakers' core was dissipitating any time soon, because the news out of LA tonight is that you can count on this unit wheeling and dealing for the forseeable future. The LA Times is reporting that the Lakers and All-Star Forward-Center Pau Gasol have reached an agreement on a 3-year contract extension. The amount has not been confirmed yet, but internet rumors have hit as high as $64 million, meaning that the Lakers payroll in 2012 will be high enough to build a Deathstar with it. Which is fitting, since this Lakers' offense essentially is the basketball equivalent of a planet-sized weapon.
The extension comes right as LA prepares to lock up Kobe Bryant for what will likely be his final extension, with the max contract already in place and the remaining details all that's left to iron out. The Lakers will not be leaving their future uncertain unlike some teams.
Gasol has erupted since returning from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for the start of the season. He leads the league in rebounding rate and has pushed the already incredible Lakers offense into a whole new gear. What's more, the extension carries very little risk. It doesn't kick in until after his current deal ends in 2011, when Gasol will be 31. And while 31-year-old forward/centers are very rarely able to get up and down like they could five years earlier, Gasol's game isn't physically punishing. It's precise, efficient, and intelligent. His long-term viability could stretch well past what is normal for men at his position, barring injury.
The Lakers don't necessarily have to concern themselves much with extensions like other teams in the league. After all, what player wants to leave LA? Titles, fame, great weather, a winning tradition, and status. It's a dream gig. Still, locking up their two most important components means that the Lakers can focus on continuing to surround them with more talent.
It's a good time to be a Lakers fan.
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