Phil Wallace calls it a "huge trade," the Lakers getting Pau Gasol from Memphis for Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, and two draft picks.

Gasol immediately takes the Lakers to another level. He has superstar talent. He's a 7-footer who can run the floor, pass, rebound, and he has some great footwork in the post....

When Andrew Bynum comes back from injury, the Lakers will have a front line of Bynum, Gasol, and Lamar Odom, which should be as good as any in the West. Add Kobe Bryant to the mix, and you've got a special team.

SoCal Sports Observed