Former All-Star Pau Gasol won’t be making his Portland Trail Blazers debut anytime soon. Trail Blazers announced on Wednesday that they have released Gasol as his recovery from foot surgery continues to prevent him from getting back on the court.
Gasol signed with the Trail Blazers on a one-year deal in the summer, but there was a clause that allowed the team to terminate the contract if his recovery lasts longer than expected. The 39-year-old Spaniard, however, will remain with the organization. According to reports, the two sides are currently discussing a coaching role for the player as he continues his rehabilitation.
“As of today, I will no longer be a member of the Portland Trail Blazers players roster,” – said Gasol in a video posted on his social media. “The injury that I’ve been dealing with and for which I underwent surgery last May can take anywhere from six to 12 months to heal completely.”
“I underwent surgery in hopes that it would expedite my return. But unfortunately in the last few days we have assessed that my recovery is going to take longer than originally hoped for” – he added.
After agreeing on a buyout with San Antonio Spurs in March, Pau Gasol signed a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks. However, he only managed to play three games before going down with a foot injury. Gasol averaged career-low all across the board last season, having 3.9 points and 4.6 rebounds per game.
During his 18 years in the league, Gasol made six All-Star appearances and has won two NBA titles. Over the course of his NBA career, he averaged 17.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.6 blocks per game.
