Ever since he left the Portland Trail Blazers and signed with the San Antonio Spurs, it seemed like something was off with LaMarcus Aldridge. Somehow, someway, it didn’t seem like a natural fit for him and his playing style.
In fact, the rumors say that Aldridge wanted to get out of San Antonio after his first season under Gregg Popovich’s tutelage. Then, they worked things out and got him more involved in the offense, but still, it seemed like he was far from the dominant scorer he was in Portland.
Fast-forward to today and both parties have finally agreed to part ways once and for all, but given his contract, moving him in a trade isn’t going to be as easy as you’d like. That’s what makes him a prime buyout candidate right after the trade deadline.
And, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic; the Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and Portland Trail Blazers would like to make a run at him if he’s bought out.
Report: Portland, Miami, Boston are all expected to show interest in LaMarcus Aldridge if he is bought out, via @ShamsCharania
Portland reunion. 👀🍿 pic.twitter.com/7iyoIMSzi1
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) March 15, 2021
All three teams are obvious fits for Aldridge right now. The Miami Heat have been looking for another star for some time now and he’d be a massive upgrade over Kelly Olynyk, who’s currently starting at the four for them.
The Boston Celtics have been on the market for a big man for a while as well, and it’s clear that Tristan Thompson wasn’t the answer to their prayers.
As for the Portland Trail Blazers, it’s not a secret that Aldridge and Damian Lillard hold a close relationship and he’s advocated for his comeback more than once. He played the best basketball of his career at RIP City and they’re shorthanded with Zach Collins, Harry Giles, and Jusuf Nurkic all injured.
We’ll still have to wait and see but we can be sure that there will be plenty of suitors lining up to try and make the most of his services until the end of the season.
