The Los Angeles Lakers could keep veteran center Pau Gasol after head coach Mike D'Antoni stepped down from his post on Thursday.

According to USA Today, D'Antoni's resignation will have a big impact on Gasol, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career this summer.

The 33-year-old All-Star center previously said that he would strongly consider returning for another year with the Lakers, but only if the team will look for a new coach to replace D'Antoni.

Gasol averaged 17.4 points to go along with 9.7 rebounds and 3.4 assists, but he has been struggling to fit into D'Antoni's system, especially last season when superstar center Dwight Howard was still the focal point of the Lakers' frontline.

"There would have to be significant changes," Gasol said on re-signing with the Lakers. "I've never concealed the fact that D'Antoni's style doesn't suit my game. Everybody knows this. I don't know if my decision will be swayed by whether Mike stays or leaves. Obviously, the coach is a very important factor for any team."

Gasol is expected to become one of the most coveted free agents this summer with sources saying that several teams, including the New York Knicks, Memphis Grizzlies, and Cleveland Cavaliers, are interested in acquiring the 7-foot center.

The 13-year veteran made it no secret that he will strongly consider returning to the Grizzlies wherein he spent the first six seasons of his career before being dealt to the Lakers halfway through the 2007-08 season.

The Grizzlies will also reportedly consider teaming up Pau Gasol with his younger brother, Marc, especially if veteran power forward Zach Randolph opts out of the final year of his contract this summer.

The Knicks are also on Gasol's list of possible destinations. According to reports, Gasol is interested in signing with the Knicks because of Phil Jackson, who was his coach when he won his two NBA titles with the Lakers.

"I'm happy for him and the position that he got," Gasol told Yahoo! Sports. "I'm always going to be a big fan and a friend. I would listen."