Kamenetzky Brothers's post on LA Lakers | Latest updates on Sulia

Ironically, at a time where Pau Gasol's trade value might be rising thanks to improved performance as a starter,

the Lakers' ability to move him might be hamstrung. Dwight Howard's shoulder kept him off the floor in Minnesota and again in Detroit, and he's questionable for Tuesday's game in Brooklyn. But whether Howard suits up against the Nets or not, it's pretty clear his bum right shoulder will be a problem for the rest of the season. He is going to leave some games early and miss others entirely. On nights he's in street clothes (or warmups, but equally unavailable) having Pau around is kinda handy. And while, in theory at least, a trade might bring back another high end player, it's hard to tailor a trade giving the Lakers both a viable day-to-day insurance policy for Howard in the middle and something fitting their longer term needs. And while the Lakers would, at least in theory, get a good player or two back in exchange for Pau, finding one who can simultaneously fit well with Howard and stand in for him while fitting their longer term needs is a tricky proposition. Moreover, it's hard to believe the Lakers could make a major deal involving Pau and get the all the pieces working cohesively over twentysomething games. So the good news: Made a featured post player once again, Gasol has shown he can produce. But while the bump in his value is a good thing for the Lakers, the reason he's had the opportunity makes it harder to take advantage, should they be inclined. --BK