Moments before tipoff, Pau Gasol turned his head and saw Kobe Bryant walking onto the court.
The two then shared a hug, symbolizing the strong partnership through 6 1/2 seasons with the Lakers that spanned three NBA Finals appearances and two championships. It also marked the first time the two played against each other since Gasol left the Lakers for the Chicago Bulls two years ago.
“I’d love to see him on the floor,” Gasol said before the Lakers hosted Chicago on Thursday at Staples Center. “It’ll be a fun and special game for me for many reasons.