Kobe Bryant says as long as he’s a Laker, Pau Gasol will be one too

(AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

During a Team USA media session in Barcelona, Kobe Bryant was asked about his Laker teammate and Spanish team player, Pau Gasol. After Pau’s flame out in the 2011 playoffs and the spectator of being traded at any moment throughout the 11-12 season, Kobe seems to have decided Pau isn’t going anywhere.

Kobe, answering a question from a Spanish reporter about Pau’s status with the Lakers: “As long as I’m there, he’s going to be there.”

Great show of support from Kobe but the question has to be asked, is Kobe’s word the final say so in this new look Lakers organization? Or would be in Jim Buss’ best interest to appease the superstar for the final two years left on his contract?