It was a tough year for Los Angeles Lakers center Marc Gasol. The former NBA champion signed with the defending champs in the offseason looking to add some experience and playmaking in their frontcourt. Unfortunately, things didn't pan out the way he and the organization wanted to as LA's season came to an end.
But, according to the three-time All-Star, his goal with signing with the Lakers was simple. He wanted to honor his brother, Pau, who had an incredible career as part of the Purple & Gold.
“I came into this year with the mindset of enjoying every second of it, soaking everything in, and understanding what an honor it is to wear this jersey,” Gasol said (via CBS Sports). “Obviously, you guys know my family history with the team and how much it meant to Pau. So for me to be here and play for this team was an honor, and it is an honor. So I didn't take it for granted for one second.”
Pau, Marc's big brother, left a legacy as a member of the storied franchise. In his six seasons in LA, Pau won back-to-back titles in 2009 and 2010 alongside the late Kobe Bryant. For Marc, just being part of the franchise his brother was a huge part of was more than any other accolade he could've imagined.
Obviously, the goal was to hopefully win his second ring in the NBA and help the defending champions win back-to-back titles. Instead of trying to somewhat replicate what his older brother had accomplished a decade ago, Marc and the rest of the Lakers hit a wall and had a stunning first-round exit against the red-hot Phoenix Suns.
But, at the age of 36, the approach to the game and the sport tends to change. Gasol did sign a two-year deal with the Lakers prior to this season, but with the way things are looking, his stint with LA might be a one-and-done deal. That's something he's totally okay with.
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