Spurs coach Gregg Popovich has softened his stance on the February 2008 trade between the Lakers and Grizzlies that sent Pau Gasol to Los Angeles.

Once a harsh critic of the deal, which many perceived to be lopsided, Popovich now says that Memphis made out good in the deal.

"They gave up a great player but it helped them extend the franchise's success into the future," Popovich said. "It's shown that they've done a good job. Whatever they were thinking a couple of iterations ahead at the time has paid off for them."

The Grizzlies received Kwame Brown, rookie Javaris Crittenton, the rights to Marc Gasol and first-round picks in 2008 and 2010.

"What they did in Memphis is beyond comprehension," Popovich said at the time. "There should be a trade committee that can scratch all trades that make no sense. I just wish I had been on a trade committee that oversees NBA trades. I would have voted no to the L.A. trade."