By George Efkarpides / info@eurohoops.net
The Memphis Grizzlies have been struggling without Mike Conley in their line-up and suffered their eighth straight loss on a Sunday night with Gasol watching from the bench during the fourth quarter.
“I do not know the ‘why.’ I just have to continue to lead by example for the young guys. It’s easy to say (what to do) when it’s somebody else. But now that I’m the one in this awkward situation, I have to show them how to react. I don’t like it one bit, and I’m more (angry) than I can ever show and frustrated. But for the benefit of the team, I have to show leadership and continue to do my job.”
“If I start venting, that would be counterproductive,” Gasol also said as reported by Commercial Appeal. “But at the end of the day, I’m as competitive as anybody. I hate not playing. That’s what I value most. If I’m not out there, I’m not valued. I’m sure they knew that would hurt me the most.”
Gasol was subbed out late in the third with the home side down by 17 and never saw the floor again even though his team trimmed the lead to five.
Memphis’ franchise center indicated that coach Fizdale never really had an explanation for his decision:
“I don’t know if there’s anything to be said,” he said.”I’m more of an action guy. I don’t believe in words. They’re just that. I believe more in actions. I’ll see what people do and act accordingly.
Even though Memphis started the year strong, they have seen a huge dip in the standings and if they can turn things around quickly, Gasol may end up being on the trade block, something that will make many teams very happy.
There are quite a few franchises that are close to contending and adding a dominant center like Gasol may be exactly what they need to get over the top.