5 Realistic Trade Targets For The Los Angeles Lakers In 2016-17
San Antonio Spurs PF LaMarcus Aldridge
Before you ask why I considered this “realistic,” just read on.
At this moment, there’s a lot of speculation surrounding LaMarcus Aldridge’s future with the San Antonio Spurs (via CSN New England). He wasn’t the star they were looking for last season, and whispers would indicate that the team is ready to shop him if he struggles early in 2016-17.
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So it seems reasonable for a team without a proven star like the Lakers to consider a potential deal.
First off, we’ve all seen the type of damage Aldridge can do. The Lakers tried to persuade him to sign (twice), but failed to do so as he joined the Spurs. It’s clear they like what he brings to the table, but he doesn’t appear to be a good fit in Texas. Coming to Los Angeles, however, might bring out the star we saw emerge with the Portland Trail Blazers.
Unfortunately, trading for Aldridge would likely mean the Lakers parting ways with one of the high-upside youngsters. My guess is they’d offer Julius Randle and maybe a draft pick or role player.
Obviously there’s no guarantee Aldridge is even made available. However, if he is, you’d have to think the Lakers would be interested.
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It’d be a risky move considering what we saw from Aldridge in 2015-16, but the change of scenery could be just what he needs to re-emerge as a star.