What Led to the Astronomical Rise of the Kobe Bryant Led Lakers in 2008?

Back in 2008, the Lakers were still in the trustworthy hands of Kobe Bryant, but something was missing. They were not yet a team that could match with their arch-rivals, the heavily loaded Boston Celtics. They needed a key change in their roster to win another championship.

The Lakers were regular with their playoff appearances, thanks to talents like Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum. But they were repeatedly failing to go deeper in the post-Shaq era. That’s when the Buss family etched out one great move – the entry of Pau Gasol.

One trade that changed it all 

In the 2008 mid-season, the Lakers franchise indicated that they were willing to sacrifice for greater success. On February 1, exactly 13 years ago, they brought in Pau Gasol from the Grizzlies and let go of Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie, the draft rights to Marc Gasol, and first-round picks in 08 and 2010. 

This brave move proved worthwhile as Pau instantly became Kobe Bryant‘s go-to guy. He helped the starting-five gain strength and forced a 22-5 run to help them later reach the NBA finals. The Lakers surely lost against the C’s in six games, but Pau took his revenge two years later.

In 2010 in Game 7, Pau’s unbelievable clutch performance helped them win the 16th title. The legend saw three All-star selections until his time with the Lakers ended and he gathered an astounding average of 17.7 points, 9.9 rebs, 3.5 assists, and 1.4 blocks playing for them. It will not be surprising if the Lakers organization retires his jersey in the coming years. 

The Lakers have a history of such prolific moves

The Lakers organization has replicated similar business moves thrice; first in 1996, then in 2008, and recently in 2019. In ’96, they locked in Shaquille O’Neal and the Black Mamba to later help them record a three-peat for the first time after 1954. Then they did it with the earlier mentioned signing of Pau Gasol. In 2019, they brought in Anthony Davis to help LeBron James fill his need for a trustworthy piece. 

Also, the most recent trade to welcome Marc Gasol in a move that took them full circle is turning out to be an efficient one. Pau’s younger brother Marc is averaging 3.9 points, 4.4 boards, 2 assists, and 1.2 blocks a game. Can he help the Lakers win back-to-back titles just like his elder brother? 

Read also – From Halloween to Golf: How Pau Gasol Has Helped Vanessa Bryant & Family Recover From Kobe’s Demise