Unrestricted free agent LaMarcus Aldridge is likely leaving the Portland Trail Blazers, and an assistant coach confirmed as much.
According to WTHI, a television station in Indiana, Kim Hughes said the team struck out in the pursuit of Aldridge.
“Well, people don’t realize we just went young. We didn’t publicize it, but we lost LaMarcus Aldridge. It hasn’t been declared yet, but I’m sure he won’t come back. We will go young.”
Should Aldridge indeed choose a different team, Meyers Leonard will occupy a larger role moving forward. The Illinois product tallied a career-best 5.9 points and 4.5 rebounds in 2014-15, adding a 42.0 percent mark from three-point range.
Chris Kaman, Mason Plumlee and Noah Vonleh are the other forwards currently on the roster, while Robin Lopez is a free agent.
Aldridge met with a handful of NBA franchises Wednesday, though Portland was not on the docket since he’s met with management multiple times in the past.
Reports surfaced of Aldridge’s reaction to the various sales pitches; The Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Phoenix Suns and Toronto Raptors each made good impressions, but the Los Angeles Lakers did not.
The power forward is expected to complete visits with the Dallas Mavericks and New York Knicks, per USA Today’s Sam Amick.
Photo: USA Today Sports