Lakers Nation Wishes Happy Birthday to Forward Pau Gasol

It’s been an up-and-down year for Pau Gasol, who found himself in the middle of a trade firestorm. After being traded from the Lakers to the Houston Rockets back in December, only to see the deal vetoed by the league Commissioner, Gasol has faced more uncertainty in the past 12 months than most people face in a decade.

Still, Gasol has handled all the pressure and drama like a true professional, and continued to show up for the Lakers every day. Now, with the team acquiring point guard Steve Nash and suddenly back in the championship mix, Gasol will be looking to help guide the team to its 17th championship, and his third overall.

So, on this day we would like to wish a very happy birthday to the 7-foot Spaniard, and take a look back at some of his best moments as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers. Since joining L.A. back in 2008, Gasol has led the team to three NBA Finals appearances and two championships. Not bad for a guy incorrectly labeled ‘soft.’

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*Video courtesy of YouTube user theLakers1624.