Power Forward free agents Raptors may look at
By Brian Boake
Pau Gasol (UFA, Chicago Bulls)
Jan 7, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Pau Gasol (16) hugs Dallas Mavericks point guard Jose Calderon (8) before the game at the American Airlines Center. The Mavericks defeated the Lakers 110-97. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Do not go gentle into that good night/Rage, rage, against the dying of the light – Dylan Thomas
Here’s Pau, emphatic proof that a smart veteran can still have a huge impact. His numbers continue to shine, he plays every game, he’s considered a model teammate, and he’ll be 36 next season. There’s no reason to think he can’t play 2 or 3 more years.
Want an off-the-wall notion? Bring back fellow Spaniard Jose Calderon as a backup point guard, then pitch Pau on playing with his friend, and the merits of Toronto. I doubt Pau will need much persuading; he’s a man of the world. I’d love to see the improvement in Jonas Valanciunas with Pau’s wisdom close at hand.
Pau in Raptor purple (or OVO black & gold, or red & black, or camo, or whatever we are today)? I don’t think that’s crazy talk at all.
$20 million on a two-year deal? Why not?
Next: 2. Needs work, but wow! what upside