Chicago Bulls: Will This Be Pau Gasol’s Last All-Star Game?

Was the 2016 NBA All-Star Game Pau Gasol’s last All-Star appearance?

Last night’s NBA All-Star Game marked Kobe Bryant‘s last appearance. But will it also be that of former Los Angeles Laker co-star, Pau Gasol?

Although Gasol was not actually voted through this time around, he was chosen by league commissioner Adam Silver to replace injured Chicago Bulls teammate, Jimmy Butler. Butler, who is out with a knee problem for 3-4 weeks.

"“It’s really nice to be here and be part of the All-Star game with Kobe and the relationship we’ve developed over the years,” Gasol told Sam Smith. “One of my biggest disappointments of not being selected by the coaches directly was I wasn’t going to be here for that, and now that I am, I am happy to be part of this moment.”"

The big man entered the league in 2001 (after playing for FC Barcelona in Spain since 1998), as the third overall draft pick. He was selected by the Atlanta Hawks, but was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies, where he remained until 2008. It was with the Grizzlies that Gasol averaged a career-high 20.8 points and 2.1 blocks per game, along with 9.8 rebounds. Gasol also played in his first All-Star game in 2006, and became the team’s all-time leading scorer.

He then went on to become a Laker, the part of his career most fans reminisce on. Playing alongside Bryant, he won two championships with the team (in 2009 and 2010) and appeared in four more All-Star games.

In 2014, Gasol signed with the Bulls, and recorded a career-high 11.8 rebounds a game that year. And although lately things have been shaky with the team by way of a new coach, seemingly endless injuries and overall inconsistency, the center is still averaging 17.0 points and 10.9 rebounds a night.

"“It has been (an amazing) career. When I think about it I am moved by it; everything I have been able to accomplish, the experience to share with people at the same time. That’s something I always take to heart and it’s humbling.”"

But many wonder how many years Gasol has left in him.

At 35, the veteran may indeed be looking to retire soon, which obviously would be understandable after 14 years in the NBA.

However, there has yet to be any real talk about Gasol leaving the game behind, from him or anyone in his camp. In fact, his name has recently come up among several trade rumors, indicating that at least for now he does plan on sticking around.

"“I’m still playing at a very, very high level and recognized for it. I could never have dreamed of a career like this. But the fact is it’s been an incredible journey and I intend to prolong it for a few more years and I am definitely proud.”"

Regardless of if Gasol is still in the NBA next season or not though, with all the developing talent around the league, he may not be voted through to the All-Star Game again.

On Sunday night, Gasol put up a mere nine points and seven rebounds in 15 minutes of play. He went 3-of-7 from the field, and short of a touching moment between him and Bryant, was pretty much MIA for the duration of the game.

Still, it was great to see Chicago represented on the court. Although Butler did attend, he was obviously sidelined for the duration of the evening.

And of course, being able to send off one of his closest friends, must have meant the world to Gasol.

More hoops habit: NBA Trade Rumors: 5 Landing Spots For Derrick Rose

Now that All-Star Weekend is over, it is time to open the trade floodgates. With the Feb. 18 deadline approaching, will the Bulls make any moves? Stay tuned.