Optimism is rising again for the Portland Trail Blazers. After their most recent win against the versatile Houston Rockets, it has become clear that if the Blazers do make the postseason, they could seriously make some noise.
However, even for all the talent they have, there is always room for improvement.
In Portland’s case, Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report recently suggested a deal that could bring back an old fan favorite big man to help increase their offensive potency.
The Trade: LaMarcus Aldridge for Trevor Ariza and Rodney Hood
It no longer feels like a given, but if the Portland Trail Blazers renounce their free-agency rights to Hassan Whiteside, they could have a bit of cap space to work with this offseason.
Using it to reunite Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge could make some sense.
Being the third option behind Lillard and CJ McCollum might be the ideal role for the twilight of Aldridge’s career, especially since he finally embraced the three-point shot this season. With him pulling bigs away from the paint, driving and cutting lanes would be more open for the two guards and Jusuf Nurkic’s post game.
Just a few weeks removed from celebrating his 35th birthday, LaMarcus is nearing the end of his career. And while his success has been limited in San Antonio, his production has remained surprisingly high for his age. This past season, he put up 18 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists on 49% shooting.
Alongside Dame, CJ, and Carmelo Anthony, Aldridge could shine and the Blazers would be nearly unstoppable on the offensive end.
Unfortunately, the biggest question mark for the Blazers has been on defense, and L.A. doesn’t necessarily help improve their standing there.
Regardless, you can expect the Blazers to consider all their options in the 2020 offseason — but it will all depend on what happens these next few weeks.
