NBA News: Gasol-Anthony Combo in New York; Reunion with Jackson, Fisher Possible

A Pau Gasol, Phil Jackson and Derek Fisher reunion could be in place in New York with the Knicks reportedly interested in signing the Spanish big man, a move that can sway free agent Carmelo Anthony to re-sign with the Big Apple franchise.

According to ESPN.COM’s Marc Stein, Jackson is expected to lure Gasol, who is an unrestricted free agent by July 1 and who last played for the Los Angeles Lakers, the former teams of Jackson and Fisher.

Jackson has been more than active so far in his first month as the Knicks’ team president. He hired former ward in Fisher to run the team as head coach and delivered the first major trade of the offseason by dealing away Tyson Chandler and his big contract to the Dallas Mavericks. The latter move saved the N.Y. franchise some money moving forward although they still have a big payroll that will limit their chances at other big name free agents.

Acquiring Gasol should be a good start in convincing Anthony to stay. However, the Knicks only have $4M to offer the Spaniard and will need him to take a pay cut if he wants to reunite with his former coach and former teammate in New York.

Gasol could be attracted to the reunion with Jackson and Fisher; and a possible team-up with a star like Anthony. However, other teams have more ammunition financially and the Spaniard might choose to get paid as he’s hitting the twilight of his career.

Gasol is entering his 14th NBA season and has played the last six and a half seasons with the Lakers. The 33-year-old averaged 17.4 points and 9.7 rebounds in 60 games for L.A. in the 2013-2014 NBA season.