Trail Blazers waive veteran center Pau Gasol

The Portland Trail Blazers have waived veteran center Pau Gasol, per his Instagram.

Gasol, who hadn’t played this season, was rehabbing from offseason foot surgery, but was unable to get fully healthy enough to return. Per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, there were protections in Gasol’s one-year contract, and now it appears the big man will pursue a career in the coaching realm, which is great to see.

Might this move have coincided with the addition of Carmelo Anthony?

I’d hate to rain on Gasol’s parade and all, but the Blazers likely made this announcement now that Melo is in the building. Gasol is a sure-fire Hall of Famer, but just couldn’t shake the injuries. Now, Portland is thinner in the front court with Zach Collins still out, and a bunch of struggling youngsters. So really Anthony is in a good spot to pick up even more playing time long-term.