After a turbulent season that put a damper on their relationship building, Los Angeles Lakers head coach Mike D'Antoni expects to see a huge productive season out of big man Pau Gasol in 2013-14.
Although D'Antoni was never able to use Gasol properly in his system last season, he still believes that Gasol is in for a career year next season after appearing on ESPN 710 with Mark Willard and Mychal Thompson.
With Dwight Howard out of the lineup, Gasol should be able to resume his role as the starting center for the Lakers. With him at that role the offense could potentially run a lot smoother being that he'll bring more dimensions to the offense as opposed to the one-dimensional Howard, thus increasing the team's offensive chemistry on the floor.
Although it remains to be seen whether or not Gasol will truly be back to form as one of the best players in the league, a case can be made for the Spaniard having a big year as the second option in the offense behind Kobe Bryant. Gasol might even benefit from Kobe being on the shelf for the start of the upcoming season with Steve Nash and the veteran power forward running the show.
Also Los Angeles should be excited to watch Gasol/Nash pick-and-roll in the upcoming season, being that Gasol has the ability to finish in the lane, make jumpshots, and is capable of making the right pass out the double team-something Howard demonstrated much difficulties with.
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