Los Angeles is coming off another dismal season after struggling to stay healthy and generate team chemistry. The Lakers will have Kobe Bryant and Julius Randle available for the coming season, and Jordan Clarkson was an absolute revelation; however, more pieces must be added if this team is to contend once again.
After drafting D'Angelo Russell—a fantastic decision—the Lakers still have a major hole in their frontcourt. They began free agency with some attempts to fill that void. Let's take a look at how things panned out based on several rumors from around the Web.
LaMarcus Aldridge
After spending nine seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers, power forward LaMarcus Aldridge decided to test the open market. He generated plenty of interest due to his phenomenal body of work over his NBA career, and the Lakers were granted an early interview.
Aldridge is coming off a season in which he averaged 23.4 points and 10.2 rebounds per game while shooting 46.6 percent from the floor, and he brings a versatile and physical presence the Lakers desperately need up front. Well, judging by how the team's meeting with Aldridge went, he won't be wearing purple and gold next season.
Mike Bresnahan of the Los Angeles Times relayed how things went, writing, "LaMarcus Aldridge will not sign with the Lakers because he was unimpressed by their Tuesday night presentation, according to a person familiar with the situation."
So, there that is.
That news hurts Los Angeles significantly because the Lakers were expected to have a fair shot at landing Aldridge in free agency. It appears as though the team wi...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
