We thought this might be a possibility, but the fact he needs surgery kind of made the decision for everyone involved.
After having a specialist look at Aldridge’s ailing hip and suggesting surgery after finding “slight abnormalities” the team announced Friday they are shutting the All-Star forward down for the season.
“In his most recent MRI, and following further evaluation, it’s been determined that LaMarcus has a slight labral tear and will require arthroscopic surgery,” said Acting General Manager Chad Buchanan in a released statement. “LaMarcus’ priority is that he’s 100-percent healthy going into training camp this fall and we all feel this is the best course. He’s had an All-Star year and his long-term health is the most important thing to consider.”
Aldridge has been one of the best power forwards in the game the past couple seasons, averaging 21.7 points and 8 rebounds again this campaign. Portland is in a position this offseason, with cap space and draft picks to bring their roster in the post Roy/Oden era. And Aldridge is at the heart of that. So get him right and bring him back next October.