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Portland Trail Blazers big man LaMarcus Aldridge told the Oregonian's Joe Freeman that he intends to re-sign with the team next offseason rather than signing an extension now.
LaMarcus Aldridge tells The Oregonian he will not sign a contract extension with #Blazers this offseason, but plans to do so next summer.
— Joe Freeman (@BlazerFreeman) July 8, 2014
Aldridge said it makes most sense financially to wait because he can sign for more years (5) and make more money ($108 million) next year.
— Joe Freeman (@BlazerFreeman) July 8, 2014
Aldridge: "I'm happy to stay (in Portland), happy to be here, happy with the direction the team has gone the last year or 2. But ..." (cont)
— Joe Freeman (@BlazerFreeman) July 8, 2014
Aldridge cont: "... I just want to get a 5-year deal. I feel like that’s the best decision on my part."
— Joe Freeman (@BlazerFreeman) July 8, 2014
LaMarcus Aldridge said he wants to finish his career in Portland. One reason why: "I want to be the best Blazer. Ever."
— Joe Freeman (@BlazerFreeman) July 8, 2014
Aldridge has been excellent for years, but enjoyed a career season last year and removed any doubt that he would command a maximum contract on the open market. He spoke freely about his desire to stay in Portland, as the team turned it around after missing the postseason in consecutive years. The Blazers then earned their first playoff-series win since 2000, beating the Houston Rockets in the first round.
The three-time All-Star averaged 23.2 points and 11.1 rebounds per game this past season. As long as he stays healthy, this is a prudent financial move for Aldridge, who turns 29 this month.
