What the Los Angeles Lakers need the most moving forward

LaMarcus Aldridge

Just last week, Gregg Popovich announced that the Spurs intend to cut ties with the 35-year-old 6-11 Aldridge. Their preference, naturally, is to find a trading partner, which probably rules out the Lakers. But it’s at least possible San Antonio will end up buying him out.

Aldridge is no longer the same dynamic offensive force he was earlier in his career. But his biggest advantage to the Lakers is that he has an outside shot that extends to three-point range. That helps stretch opposing defenses, which in turn opens up driving lanes to the hoop for the likes of LeBron James and Dennis Schroder.

At this stage of his career, his defense is a bit shaky, and it’s unrealistic to think he’ll suddenly find the fountain of youth. And it’s well-known that the Spurs won’t want to help the Lakers or other potential suitors and title pursuers like the Clippers or Nets. Also, back in the Kupchak era, Aldridge visited with the Lakers while exploring free agency but rejected their overtures.

Still, it will be difficult for San Antonio to find a team willing to pay him the remainder of his $24 million expiring contract, so the Spurs may end up buying him out. And an opportunity to team with LeBron and AD could tempt Aldridge to sign with the Lakers.

Depending on his health, he could actually be one of the better fits because of his ability to shoot from outside. LA in LA could be an interesting combination.