The Lakers coach (Mike D’Antoni) shook off any notion the team was actively looking to deal (Pau) Gasol, who is set to make $19 million this season and $19.3 million next season. D’Antoni said the Spaniard is too valuable to trade away.

Gasol has struggled to keep pace in the up-tempo offense, which also has led to trade speculation. He is averaging a career low 13.4 points and 9.1 rebounds, lower than the three previous seasons.

“He’s unique in the league,” D’Antoni said. “There aren’t many 7-footers who have the skill set that he has. He’s unique. I will never question what he has done.”

via Janis Carr of The Orange County Register