NBA News: Backup Big Man Pledges Lakers Loyalty Amid Struggle

Marc Gasol is roughly a shell of his old dominant self with his NBA performance notably on the decline.

The Spaniard has been through a lot in the time he has played in the league, and most feel that he is at the penultimate stage of his career.

In a previous report, Gasol admitted that the arrival of Andre Drummond to the Los Angeles Lakers was a hard pill to swallow.

The reason behind this is because the 36-year-old would be spending more time on the bench with the 6-foot-10 Drummond expected to be the team's starter.

“It’s a hard pill to swallow because I know I’m going to be out of the lineup at some point,” Gasol stated via The Athletic.

But the decision to bring in another All-Star center was because the Lakers were not getting much out of him. Gasol's numbers speak for his current stature, managing only 4.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists this season.

Several days later, Gasol shared that he is ready to accept whatever comes his way for the rest of the way. He understands his situation and promises that he will be ready each night when he is called to perform, ESPN reported.

“It’s been a process for me to reassess this situation a little bit, but like I said, I’m fully committed to this team. So, whatever is thrown at me, I’ll be ready,” Gasol stated.

Gasol is in the first year of a two-year $5.3 million deal with the s Lakers. Before Drummond got into the picture, he was the franchise's starting center.

But somehow, the former NBA champion’s production has not helped the cause of head coach Frank Vogel. There is no telling what the future holds, but it seems obvious that this could very well be his last ride in the league.

Rumors swirled before the Drummond signing that Gasol may be bought out. These claims were quickly shot down, with the Lakers stressing that the Spaniard remains a vital part of their core.

From his latest statements, it appears that Gasol is ready to take on a demoted role and hopefully win another NBA title to add to his basketball resume.