The Brooklyn Nets managed to add another All-Star to their already-stacked roster. The team confirmed on Sunday that they came to terms with LaMarcus Aldridge, who signed a contract until the end of the season with the franchise.
Aldridge, a seven-time All-Star, recently became a free agent after securing a contract buyout agreement with the San Antonio Spurs. He played just 21 games in 2020-21, scoring 13.7 points per game and having career-low 4.5 rebounds on average.
Aldridge and San Antonio agreed to go their separate ways in early March and explored trade options ahead of the NBA trade deadline. After failing to find a deal that worked for both sides, they entered buyout negotiations that were finalized late last week.
Several teams were in the running for Aldridge, with Miami Heat reportedly making a strong push to sign the player. Still, the 35-year-old veteran opted for the Nets as he reportedly believes they offer him the clearest path for a shot at his first NBA title.
LaMarcus Aldridge joined the Spurs in 2015 after spending the first nine years of his career with the Blazers. Aldridge, who has five All-NBA honors, averaged 19.4 points and 8.3 rebounds since becoming a pro.
After getting Aldridge on board, the Nets have become a clear favorite for the NBA title this year. They already have superstars Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving on their roster while also recently signing six-time All-Star Blake Griffin after the 32-year-old player was bought out by the Detroit Pistons.
Brooklyn is currently sitting at a 31-15 record, enough for the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference.
