This makes the matchup with Houston more fair. The Rockets don't have Yao, the Lakers don't have Gasol.
Very tough break for the Lakers, who have been one of the great surprises of the year. Even before they got Pau, the Lakers were winning a lot of games and playing so well, that Kobe didn't even want to be traded. When they got Gasol, it was a big lift for the team, even with the loss of Bynum. This is just another set-back, it may cost the Lakers a spot or two, but before long both Pau amd Bynum will be back.