Guard, L.A. Lakers
Controversy seems to follow the Los Angeles Lakers. Since winning three consecutive championships, Tinseltown’s favorite professional team has had to deal with more drama than an episode of “Law & Order.” This past summer, they made headlines again when Kobe Bryant reportedly demanded a trade because of the lack of veteran players on the team. However, the Lakers have played consistently throughout the 2007-08 season and recently traded for former NBA All-Star Pau Gasol. With that addition, the team has become a favorite in the Western Conference. Bryant sat down with rolling out to talk about the trade and his hopes of returning to the NBA Finals. –amir shaw
How has Pau Gasol fit in with the team?
Pau is a perfect fit for this team. He has the strengths that will allow us to go far in the playoffs. We’ve already jelled and he has adjusted well to the triangle offense.
What were your first thoughts when you heard about the trade?
I was amazed. It definitely answered a prayer. I’ve been praying for us to have a team that can be competitive in the playoffs. Not having a competitive team used to keep me up at night, but I’m sleeping well now. We have a good group of players.
Your fans are anticipating the return of center Andrew Bynum. How strong will you guys be once he returns?
When Andrew [recovers] from [his] injury, we will have a big front line. Having him, Gasol and Odom in the lineup will make it difficult for teams to defend [against] us. When you have Gasol at the high post and Bynum on the lower block, it will allow us to free up the perimeter. We should have a good all-around team when it comes time for the playoffs.
