The NBA Free Agency is still three months away but for the eliminated teams, it may as well start now. Pau Gasol has been the most undeservedly maligned Laker in the past 4 years so the last thing that he'll do is return to Los Angeles. Actually, that's what would probably happen.

Recent statements from Pau Gasol regarding his team and free agency shows that he does not really have definite plans for leaving.

First off, he airs support for his partner in crime for the last 6 years, Kobe Bryant. From the LA Daily News:

"I'm glad that he spoke his mind. He wants to win. He's got two years under contract with the franchise. He wants to be in the best possible position to win. Whether you do that publicly or internally, that's totally up to you. He spoke his mind and you have to respect him for that."

Kobe Bryant went on a tirade at the press conference announcing his non-return for the rest of the season. One of the perceived targets was coach Mike D'Antoni. Pau Gasol and Pringles have been at it since last season when they still had Dwight Howard. D'Antoni's inability to play him and Dwight together brought the most disappointing season in the Lakers' franchise.

If Kobe can force D'Antoni's ouster, would Pau Gasol decide to stay?

From the LA Times: "A lot of factors will influence me going one place or staying here. We'll take everything into account."

"I always want this organization to do great and to be cast in the best possible scenario. I hope everything works out well for the organization, for management, for ownership. I'm very appreciative, and if I continue to be here I would also want them to be in the best possible position."

The new CBA has stricter rules regarding free agent signings. From nba.com: "It makes things harder for teams, but it is what it is. The rules keep changing over the years. But you have to adjust and make the best out of it."

Pau Gasol can join any team that wants to hire him, but he has been a model citizen of LA. It is clear that Kobe Bryant still appreciates his skills. While he was not specific, it's clear that one of the factors for Gasol is the ouster of Mike D'Antoni.

Gasol wants to play for a contender, but contending teams may not offer him a lot. Pau does not need to take a minimum salary to chase a title, he already has two. Staying in LA for a lower but respectable amount for a better coach is still the best case scenario for the Spaniard.