NBA Trade Rumors: 10 potential trade candidates on expiring contracts

PORTLAND, OREGON - DECEMBER 26: General Manager Neil Olshey of the Portland Trail Blazers speaks with General Manager Rafael Stone of the Houston Rockets during warm ups before the game against the Houston Rockets at Moda Center on December 26, 2020 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /

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Potential trade candidate No. 5: LaMarcus Aldridge

While LaMarcus Aldridge hasn’t been apart of many trade rumors, in part because he’s averaging uncharacteristically low numbers, he’s a prime trade candidate for a team in need of size and looking for an extra push for the playoffs.

His 14.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 26.7 minutes per game are his lowest averages since his rookie year when he averaged 9 points and 5 rebounds in 22.1 minutes per game. Far below his career averages of 19.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 34.3 minutes per game.

He’s been dealing with a nagging hip injury, which is likely factors into his dip in production. At 35 years old, Aldridge may be on the back end of his career, but he still has plenty to offer. Per Synergy Sports, he ranks in the 91st percentile averaging 1.432 points per possession (PPP) by way of offensive rebounds (put backs) this season. Last season he ranked in the 79th percentile in overall offense averaging 1.058 PPP, and in the 94th percentile in transition offense averaging 1.425 PPP.

Aldridge is just one year removed from being an All-Star, and while he’s known for his post-ups and mid-range game, he’s been expanding his range in recent seasons. Last season he ranked in the 83rd percentile averaging 1.178 PPP while connecting on 38.9 percent of his 3-point attempts. He’s shooting 35.8 percent from the perimeter through 18 appearances this season.

The Boston Celtics have been rumored to be in the market for a big that can stretch the court. While Aldridge isn’t your traditional stretch-four, he has shown a willingness to shoot the three, and he can still run the floor and dominate in the post when healthy.

He’s got to get that hip right first, but maybe a reduced role on a title contender like the Celtics is exactly what Aldridge needs to revitalize his season.