Free Agency is only a few hours away, which means teams will finally be able to speak to free agents. While they can’t officially sign a contract until July 8th, the race to lure these free agents begins at midnight in the East coast.
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The Lakers will be the first team to meet with LaMarcus Aldridge and they hope to convince the All-Star big man that Los Angeles is the best destination for him. Aldridge can get more money by staying in Portland and the Spurs offer a better chance to win, so the Lakers will be fighting an uphill battle.
Mitch Kupchak will try and convince Aldridge that the Lakers can become a championship contender with him on board, but if that is not enough, a five time NBA champion will be present to present his own pitch. According to Sam Amick of USA Today, Kobe Bryant might take part in the Aldridge meeting:
As Lakers prepare for meeting with LaMarcus Aldridge tonight, I'm told Kobe Bryant is expected to take part. Not definite, but that's plan.
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) June 30, 2015
Bryant and Aldridge live in the same neighborhood, it’s likely the two have had some conversations in the past. The Mamba can share his experience with the Lakers and hopefully convince Aldridge that Los Angeles is a place where he can spend the rest of his career.
Aldridge wants to win and although the Laker roster in not as appealing as San Antonio, very few teams, if any are as committed to win championships like the Lakers. With the increase of the salary cap, the Lakers will not be afraid to spend and Aldridge could be the first piece to the championship puzzle.