LaMarcus Aldridge is on the market and makes sense for the Warriors

If the Golden State Warriors want to compete, they’ll have the opportunity to do just that. The buyout market is one that should be heating up over the next several days with a few big names already parting ways with their former teams.

One of those big names is former All-Star LaMarcus Aldridge. Aldridge played for the San Antonio Spurs, and while he may go to a true title contender, there’s no denying the Warriors are still an attractive destination for veterans.

The Warriors cleared two roster spots prior to the NBA Trade Deadline, and the now-bought-out LaMarcus Aldridge should be a target for them.

LaMarcus Aldridge has seven All-Star appearances on his career. Couple that with five nominations to an All-NBA team, and it’s easy to understand why he’ll be among the most sought-after players on the buyout market.

Aldridge is averaging 13.7 points per game this season, down from just under 19 per game a season ago. His field goal percentage has also taken a hit as it has dropped from around 49 percent to 46 percent.

One thing to note about Aldridge’s game is that he’s averaging a career-high 1.3 triples per game. That’s the type of numbers the Warriors desperately need in their frontcourt.

The Warriors went almost the entire month of February without getting many minutes from their big men. Aldridge has just 21 games under his belt this season, but he should be able to add some depth to the Warriors’ frontcourt.

Golden State’s biggest need is frontcourt depth, and with the roster spots available for the taking, they need to be reaching out to these players that are hitting the buyout market. Aldridge is a prime example of a veteran that could drastically improve this roster.

While an All-Star with Portland, Aldridge averaged over 23 points per game. Even at 6-foot-11, Aldridge still doesn’t provide great rim protection which could be a concern since he’s a traditional power forward yet been forced to play primarily center for the past four seasons.

The Warriors are clearly planning to give James Wiseman big-time minutes as they move him back into the starting lineup. If that’s the case, it may be difficult for Bob Myers to want Aldridge in the Bay Area, but if this team wants to compete, they’ll bring in Aldridge.

Golden State freed the space, and now a 35-year-old that is just two seasons removed from back-to-back All-Star appearances is on the market. They need to make a run if they want to give Curry a chance to getting to the playoffs.