Knicks to Target Pau Gasol’s Little Brother, Marc

By Michael Lopez

You would think hearing the name Gasol before a hoops game at Madison Square Garden would stir up plenty of jeers. After all, Spanish-born Pau happens to play for Los Angeles, one of New York’s biggest NBA rivals. But if you happen to be talking about Grizzlies forward Marc Gasol, expect a totally different kind of reception. Last Thursday, Pau’s little brother got a roaring ovation, primarily due to the fact that the Knicks may be courting him next year.

Five years younger than Pau (above left), Marc (above right) has already built quite a reputation on the court. When he started in the NBA in 2008, Gasol broke a franchise record by scoring the highest rookie field goal percentage. The previous record was held by his older bro.

Since Marc will be a free agent next year, rumors are swirling that he’s got his eyes on the Knicks, though he hasn't admitted it publicly.

"My objective right now is only on the playoffs," Marc recently said. "We'll see what comes up this summer. It's going to be a long summer. We'll see what happens. My heart is obviously in Memphis. But like every one says, this is a business. Sometimes your heart doesn't figure in the way it really should."

His heart may be in Memphis, but New Yorkers' hearts seem to be set on Marc. Despite the warm reception from Madison Square Garden, Gasol played his heart out for the Grizzlies on Thursday night, ultimately losing to the Knicks 99-120.

When all was said and done, Marc admitted he enjoyed his starry New York reception.

“It felt good,” he admitted. “[But] I was just concentrating on my routines. Sometimes they do cheer you.”

Would you like to see Marc Gasol join the Knicks? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags basketball, Chisme, Knicks, Marc Gasol, Memphis Grizzlies, NBA, New York Knicks, Pau Gasol, Sports