Why would we do this? We can get Gortat for the cost of $7M/year or Gasol for the cost of $19M/year. Gortat is younger, more athletic, a better shotblocker, comparable rebounder...for less than half the price.
Part of the Laker's biggest problem with Gasol+Bynum was a lack of speed which made them sicky at defending the P&R. We already have crap P&R defense, why add to that?
Gasol is a much more dangerous player than Gortat. One of the most lethal post games in the league. And while he wouldn't improve our pnr defense, he would, like Gortat, allow us to keep a rim protector in the game when KG is resting. And KG is a much better frontcourt mate for him than Bynum or Howard. KG spreads the floor beautifully, passes very well in high/low actions, and can play the 4 defensively at a high level. Further, KG/Pau poses all kinds of match-up problems for opponents - way too much size and skill for just about any team to match-up with comfortably - while also being above-average defensively.
Is Gasol really above average defensively these days?
My biggest concern with Gasol is effort/energy. He seems to be one of the worst players of the last 5 years when it comes to guys who play well in the regular season, and then puts up 5 point, 4 rebound efforts in the playoffs.
He's soft as Kleenex.
You will not see a hint of toughness or hustle from him. He won't dive for loose balls.
Gortat is probably a better rebounder and shotblocker.
Age is a big thing too. When KG and Pierce retire Gasol won't be far off, but Gortat will still he not far off his prime.
plus that ugly contract...if anything we want to rid ourselves of ugly contracts.
I just don't think soft guys who only play in the regular season are the type of guys Boston wants to pay $20M/year for.