Analyst suggests Lakers are best fit for LaMarcus Aldridge

Wednesday’s reveal that the San Antonio Spurs and LaMarcus Aldridge would be parting ways wasn’t a total surprise. Still, the clean break was sudden after he had some decent performances off the bench. Now, both sides will have to work together to figure out a solution that will work for both parties.

Like many others, we’ve pitched some trade scenarios of our own, but ultimately I feel like the Spurs will keep everyone completely in the dark until a final agreement has been made. After all, even Shams Charania or Adrian Wojnarowski couldn’t scoop Coach Popovich about LaMarcus.

The Athletic recently took a shot at speculating what could come next for the seven-time All-Star, gathering a panel of writers to share their thoughts (subscription may be required). When asked about the best fit for Aldridge around the league, Sam Amick offered up the defending champions.

“Sources say they’re in the market for another big…because the Marc Gasol experience hasn’t gone as well as hoped,” said Amick. “It’s never a bad idea to load up on options.”

At age 36, Gasol has been averaging career lows across the board in Los Angeles and playing just 20 minutes per game. The Lakers’ loaded roster still hasn’t missed a beat, securing a 24-13 record good for third in the Western Conference.

Is there a chance the San Antonio Spurs trade Aldridge to the Lakers?

Unfortunately, the Lakers have the luxury of being a premiere landing spot for guys in Aldridge’s position. This means Los Angeles has a good chance of luring him away after a buyout, meaning San Antonio would get nothing in return.

At age 35 and having never had a chance to go deep in the NBA playoffs, Aldridge is almost certainly eyeing contending teams as his career winds down. The Lakers and Brooklyn Nets are about as surefire a chance as any to get a ring in the near future.

What makes this situation interesting is that ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported having a strong feeling that the Spurs can find a deal before a buyout is necessary. Since the decision to split was mutual, I’d have to think Aldridge will have some say in where he’s dealt in such a scenario.

I have to admit, I’d feel a bit sour on Aldridge if he nixed multiple trades to join one of the superteams, but we’ll have to wait and see how this all plays out over the next two weeks.