"I think the Lakers have the best team in the West and I said that before they got him," West said Friday in a rare interview.
"He's a terrific kid, a very skilled offensive player," West said of Gasol. "He's got size and some versatility. He's a very good player. It's a terrific deal for the Lakers. He's a wonderful person. Very team-orientated. If you're around him you'll find he's not aloof. I have nothing critical to say about him. This is a steal for the present."
"I think people are very excited about this trade, and obviously I'm very happy for Mitch. I've seen some of the criticism he's gotten here and it's not justified. Pau has a good basketball IQ," West said. "This is a very positive thing for the Lakers and I think fans will appreciate him."
The Gasol trade was the first of three major moves by Western Conference contenders. In quick succession the San Antonio Spurs signed Damon Stoudamire to replace the injured Tony Parker and the Phoenix Suns acquired O'Neal from Miami.
But in his mind, there's still one clear favorite.
It's not the Suns.
Said West: "I still don't think they're as good as the Lakers."
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