“Trade Pau now and then what?” wondered a Grizzlies executive before answering his own question. Imagine Gasol alongside one or the other and then add Rudy Gay, Mike Miller (not exactly a lock to remain in Memphis past Thursday), Hakim Warrick, Alexander Johnson, Lawrence Roberts and largely forgotten (special rookie) Kyle Lowry, out forever with a broken left hand. Better to delay deliberating parting with a 26-year-old, 7-foot, All-Star caliber talent until it’s established what position the Grizzlies will own in this June’s draft and whether Greg Oden and Kevin Durant have declared their eligibility for it. Moreover, there’s strong sentiment from above that even if that ideal deal became available it’d be a monumental mistake to move Gasol at this time. John Paxson unwaveringly refuses to give up both or even two of his consecrated corps (Kirk Hinrich and Andres Nocioni) of four, whereas Jerry West steadfastly refuses to surrender his superior services for anything less. If the Grizzlies can’t wheedle Ben Gordon and Luol Deng from the Bulls, he’s not going anywhere, it says here. Pau Gasol’s exodus from Memphis has lost momentum. LAS VEGAS – Two days until the trading deadline and Jason Kidd’s divorce lawyer still hasn’t asked for a change of venue.
