It's that time of the year. The time when crazy trade rumors are floated (see: Smith, Stephen A.), talks discussed about who fits what fit, and talks about what players will do in 3 years. John Canzano, a sportswriter for the Oregonian, recently published an article stating that the Blazers should be testing the market for LaMarcus Aldridge. With 2 years left on his contract, at a VERY reasonable salary for a player of his caliber, and fresh off of a 21/9 season in his prime, it is true that LA's trade value is probably as high as it might ever get. And do not get me wrong here- I believe almost everyone can be traded for the right deal. Every year Bill Simmons publishes a column about the most valuable assets in the league. He rated Aldridge on the low end, but he still graded as a top 30 player. One could argue, and I plan to, that LaMarcus Aldridge is the best power forward in the NBA. He led all PF's in scoring, improved his rebounding to career best numbers, and has become a very good post defender. His length helps him with his jump shot, and, he should find a better flow in year 2 under Terry Stotts. Oh, and he was very efficient too. How do other PF's stack up?
Kevin Love- Could still be the best, but was hampered by an injury all year.
Blake Griffin- A solid 18/10 highflyer, but doesn't look like there is anything left to add in his game.
David Lee- Puts up 20/10, but is not as long or athletic as LA. Better rebounder though...
Chris Bosh- Third wheel in Miami, not the player he was 2-3 years ago.
Dirk and Garnett- Aging.
There are more promising ones, but for now LA is the top PF in the league- and a top 15 player at that too. Canzano stated that LA might not want to extend his deal so he could play in a larger market, and maybe for his hometown Mavericks. In my opinion, by the end of next season he will have enough reasons to extend. The core built around him in Lillard (future MVP candidate- for real), Batum (Potential All-Star) Matthews, and players with potential (Leonard, Claver) + pick 10. If next year ends up without a playoff berth he might leave. But I do not believe that will happen. Trading LA now will set the franchise back 3 years towards getting back to the playoffs. If the right offer came along, sure, trade LA- but it better be a damn great offer. His trade value is not going down anytime soon. The future is bright, including next season, and trading LA at this juncture makes no sense.
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