Good Trade Kupchak!

After Andrew Bynum went down for eight weeks, Laker fans knew it would be a tough stretch. Friday, Mitch Kupchak made that stretch a lot easier.
While giving up more than he got, Kupchak traded Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, two first round draft picks, and the rights to Aaron McKie and Marc Gasol. Many would view this trade as giving up to much.
Brown's contract expired after this year. Crittenton is a rookie. McKie was a sign and trade. Marc Gasol wasnt sure if he wanted to play in the states. The Laker's took Pau Gasol and his three-year, $39 million contract, and a 2010 draft pick, and to many, got rid of a player that needed to be traded.
Pau Gasol, 27, comes to Los Angeles after being named the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2002, and an all-star in 2006. Gasol's career highlight was helping Spain win the FIBA World Championship in 2006.
With the acquisition, and when Bynum returns from injury, the Lakers present an extremely tough matchup for any team. Although Gasol does not bring a strong defensive game to the Lakers, he does bring a mid to low-range post game, along with knowledge of the floor, and the ability to play at both the 4 and 5 positions for coach Phil Jackson.
With two seven-footers on the floor, as well as Kobe Bryant, this team, which already was in the conversation as a Western Conference contender, should threaten any chance that San Antonio has to repeat as conference champions.
With the playoffs just three months away, do not be surprised if the Lakers go in, yet again, as a No.. 6 or 7 seed if Bynum needs more time to heal. When he is fully healthy, this team should storm through the playoffs, reminding fans of the teams that won three straight championships from 2000 to 2002.