In true late August fashion, the NBA’s offseason has hit a cold spell with breaking news.
With that being said, two interesting stories emerged today involving the two Los Angeles teams.
Pau Gasol to serve as spokesman for Madrid
According to the Associated Press, Pau Gasol has been appointed by Madrid’s 2020 Olympic bid committee to serve as a spokesman. 
Gasol, a two time Olympic silver medalist, has become one the most recognizable athletes in Spain’s history. He will speak to the International Olympic Committee next month during Madrid’s final pitch.
The IOC is currently deciding between Madrid, Tokyo, and Istanbul for the 2020 summer Olympic site. The committee will make its final decision on September 7.
In the statement, Gasol said the Olympics are “more than sport” and that Madrid needs the boost the games would provide.
The 33-year-old is entering the final year of his contract with the Lakers. He had procedures done in May to relieve chronic tedonitis in his knees.
Yesterday, Gasol uploaded a video to show off his progress.
Algunos ejercicios del entrenamiento de hoy en el gimnasio! Some exercises from today’workout at the gym. #… https://t.co/86DrWZLAuV
— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) August 25, 2013
Clippers sign Jamison for veteran’s minimum
ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reports that the Los Angeles Clippers have agreed to a one year deal with Antawn Jamison worth the veteran’s minimum. 
Jamison, who had long been considered the backup plan for the Clippers and Lakers’ pursuits of Lamar Odom, instantaneously became a hot target over the weekend after Odom’s drug addiction became breaking news.
The 15-year veteran has career averages of 18.8 points and 7.6 rebounds. In a reserve role last season, Jamison saw his scoring average drop from 17.2 points per game with the Cavaliers in 2011-2012 to 9.4 points per game with the Lakers in 2012-2013.
In fairness, the 37-year-old tore ligaments in his wrists during the second half of last season and played through the pain. He underwent offseason surgery for the injury and expects to be 100 percent healthy for the start of the regular season.
He had been adamant all summer about his desire to play for a contender next season.
“I’m just happy to be a Clipper and contend for a championship,” Jamison told ESPNLosAngeles.com.
