Chicago Bulls veteran big man Pau Gasol has no intentions of leaving the team even though they are not doing great as of late and are falling in the Eastern Conference standings.
Gasol was one of the frontcourt players Chicago was reportedly willing to deal away earlier in the trade period, along with forward Taj Gibson and longtime center Joakim Noah.
Nevertheless, the 35-year-old veteran player stayed and is looking to keep his relationship with the Bulls going for the years to come.
According to a report by Sam Smith on the Bulls' website, Gasol discussed on Thursday before the trade deadline the possibility of being shipped to a different team but expressed the desire to be with the Bulls.
"This is where I wanted to be and where I want to be right now. I don't want to give up on this team just because we're going through some difficulties and challenges right now," Gasol stated, according to the report.
This year's All-Star added that with things not going as planned, all he can do is give his best and is remaining positive that they can turn things around.
The Bulls started the 2015–16 National Basketball Association (NBA) season fine but are currently experiencing a five-game losing slump.
Earlier in the season, Chicago even led the Eastern Conference but now is eighth in the standings with a 27–26 record, tied with the seventh placed Charlotte Hornets.
Gasol still has a year remaining in his contract following the present season, but he can opt out this year and be a free agent since he has a player option.
It is unknown what Gasol plans to do, although he has several options like staying and playing out the remaining year in his deal.
Another possible move is to renegotiate with Chicago for a much lucrative contract, or he can explore free agency.
Gasol is averaging 17 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and two rejections in 31.9 minutes per game, good numbers for an aging player who can attract teams in the league.
