Speaking on the Crossover NBA Show, both Howard Beck and Chris Mannix were of the belief that LaMarcus Aldridge would likely retire from the NBA.
The market has been pretty dry for Aldridge this offseason and some teams may be operating under the assumption that he won’t be back.
Despite being 37 years old, Aldridge certainly looked like he had a lot left in the tank last season. Across 47 appearances for the Nets, the veteran big man averaged 12.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.0 blocks while shooting 55% from the field.
You would think that the Nets would want him back, but this could be a sign that they are very confident in youngsters like Nicolas Claxton and Day’Ron Sharpe. There have also been whispers that Ben Simmons could get some reps as a small-ball center, and that would be a creative way to minimize the spacing issues.
Aldridge’s health could be a big factor as well, as he went into retirement the previous season due to a heart condition but was later cleared in the fall of 2021.
If this is the end for Aldridge, he’ll be going out with his head held high after a decorated 16-year career with stops in Portland, San Antonio and Brooklyn.
