Memphis Grizzlies point guard and center Marc Gasol played the bulk of 11 seasons together as teammates, all until a change of direction brought them apart. Ownership wanted to take a turn, putting them both on the trade block, as Gasol found a home with the Toronto Raptors.
Only separated by two weeks since the trade, Conley admitted the situation is “very weird,” yet he's making the most of it.
“I had to ask (Gasol) about what’s it like having guys like that that we’ve played in the playoffs so many years and basically we’ve treated them like rivals for so many years,” said Conley, according to Ryan Wolstat of The Toronto Sun. “But he’s really excited, I know he’s enjoying it. He’s sending me pictures and texting just always, there’s something new every day (in Toronto), so it’s pretty cool for him.”
Conley and Gasol spent more than a decade together, sharing practices, endless game memories and an undeniable bond, one they still share despite knowing it would all come to an end someday.
“We knew at some point it would happen and just happy he got to a situation where he can succeed and have a chance at winning a championship,” said Conley.
Gasol has won his first three games since arriving in Toronto and his role with the team should only grow as they gear for the postseason, giving the Raptors that passing presence from the post as well as a bona fide 7-foot-1 stopper to keep players from the rim on defense.
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