NBA Trade Rumors 2014 Update: LA Lakers’ Pau Gasol Frustrated With Mike D'Antoni, Could Be Dealt Before Deadline

Los Angeles Lakers superstar Pau Gasol recently voiced his frustrations over the role coach Mike D'Antoni is giving him -- comments that fueled trade speculations yet again.

In an interview with Los Angeles Times, Gasol said that he is not getting enough touches in the post in the Lakers' offensive sets, which is limiting his aggressiveness and intensity on the court.

"The fact that I'm not getting the ball in the post affects directly my aggressiveness. When I'm not getting the ball where I want to, where I'm most effective, where I can bang guys and utilize my skill, that affects my aggressiveness and overall intensity," Gasol said.

Gasol's comments did not sound good to D'Antoni, who responded to the center's remark, saying that everybody in the team, including Gasol, should play harder.

"Everybody, to a man, we've just got to play harder and worry about things less," D'Antoni told ESPN.

D'Antoni also reportedly called for a team meeting on Friday to address Gasol's comments on his offensive sets. In the said team meeting, D'Antoni allegedly told his players to speak to him directly if they have any issues with his coaching.

The recent tension between Gasol and D'Antoni, both of whom had tumultuous relationship with each other last season, revived rumors suggesting that the Lakers could trade Gasol before the deadline instead of running the risk of losing him for nothing when he becomes a free agent next summer.

"The Lakers have yet to engage in any Gasol-related trade discussions with other teams, sources told ESPN.com. But Gasol's recent comments about his frustrations with his role in the Lakers' offense, his impending free agency, and his struggles offensively and particularly defensively have essentially forced the team to consider its options," ESPN reported.

However, the Lakers are reportedly reluctant to trade Gasol for a player that would hurt their cap flexibility in the next few years, but that stance could change if a player that could made an impact is offered in exchange for Gasol.

"Sources maintain the Lakers would be reluctant to surrender that hard-fought flexibility in a potential deal for Gasol or any other player. Yet it is believed the Lakers would consider taking back salary commitments for the 2014-15 season if they received a strong offer featuring a player who could significantly help them this season and beyond or other assets to help them reload around Bryant," ESPN added.

Gasol recently said that he will test free agency after this season, hinting that leaving the Lakers could be an option, while also not ruling out a return to the Memphis Grizzlies to play with his younger brother, Marc.