LaMarcus Aldridge has had a really good career but he’s definitely on the back 9. Aldridge, 34, will have just one year remaining on his contract for $24 million in 2021. That begs the question for what’s next for the Power Forward. According to Aldridge, he plans to either stay with the Spurs or return to his first home with the Blazers.
Michael C. Wright at NBA.com had the following:
“As I think about it, I think I would be cool with it ending in two places, either with San Antonio or in Portland. I think either one would be fine with me. I feel like I’ve made some good memories in San Antonio. I feel like I’m in a really good family in San Antonio. They understand me. I understand them. So, I like that. I feel I have a lot of history in Portland. So, going back there to finish would be fine also. I’m perfectly fine with finishing my career in San Antonio riding it out until my next chapter, or if things have to change there, and if they decide to go young, then I wouldn’t mind going to Portland.”
Aldridge still has some tread left on the tires. Before the season was put on hold, he averaged 18.9 points and 7.4 rebounds per game while also shooting 38.9 percent from downtown. Still, Aldridge is not as lethal as he used to be. However, after his current contract runs out, Aldridge could be a useful veteran that likely won’t cost much either.
The 2021 season is still a long ways away. Who knows what that offseason will look like. Portland and San Antonio could both be headed towards rebuilds. Neither are in the playoff picture as things stand. It could open the door for other locations.
