Aldridge – I stayed to win the championship

A few weeks ago, Portland TrailBlazers agreed to a multi-year extension with All-Star forward LaMarcus Aldridge. Even though it seems that the deal has only been agreed in principle and not yet actioned, POR are happy to have Aldridge staying with the team long term.

We learned a painful lesson last year. We must make sure that we keep the player’s minutes under control to make sure we are ready for the Playoffs and to reduce the chance of injuries throughout the year. Aldridge spent a third of the season last year battling all kinds of injuries before we lost him completely for 2 months at the end of the season. In Portland, we have only 2 players averaging more than 30 mpg. Aldridge playing 32.4 (lowest since rookie year) and Lillard playing 37.3 mpg. The third highest is John Henson with 24.6. Admittedly, Lillard’s minutes need to go down. He is currently playing injured. A reminder to keep on top of his minutes at all times.

‘We would love to have our stars there for 40 minutes a night producing phenomenal numbers. However, we know that overworking players leads to their bodies giving up at some stage. We want Aldridge and Lillard and everybody else to be ready and in best possible shape every single game. That’s why we pay special attention to their minutes. LaMarcus played a lot of games last season through injury and we want him at full strength. Damian's minutes are very high now and will slowly go down by the end of the season. ’ – coach Avery Johnson said.

POR are playing strong defensive intensity and full-court press but also zoning a lot. This and controlled minutes allows us to keep the players fresh and ready every single night. Aldridge in particular has been in great shape so far, not missing a single minute this year with an injury. He is having a great year and, most importantly, we are winning.

‘I stayed with Portland because I feel this is the best situation for me and my family. I played my entire career here. We had some ups and downs but I feel that we are definitely on the way up and I am glad to be part of it.’ – Aldridge said.

Nice move keeping Aldridge and not trading him. He's a great power forward that I would love to get my hands on, hah hah.

I think if Portland stays healthy, they could make a big run in the West.

Signed for more money than anyone else could offer for the only team he has ever played for that happens to be a contender.

Makes too much sense.

BTW, Andrei, I really like what you've done with your team re: three point shooters. I like that you picked a strategy and ran with it. Definitely looks like it's working out.

Sun Scorched (CHA) wrote:Signed for more money than anyone else could offer for the only team he has ever played for that happens to be a contender.

Makes too much sense.

BTW, Andrei, I really like what you've done with your team re: three point shooters.  I like that you picked a strategy and ran with it.  Definitely looks like it's working out.

Thanks man  

I believe it doesnt matter who you are putting next to Damian as long as they dont take away the ball from him ..
Good team, like already said multiple times. You noticed you got one of the best players ever and you started to get the players that dont stop him and clear his path. good team. With Davis out its you who's my favourite for the title.

LMA is a nice fit with Lillard due to his high post ability, they have nice synergy for sure.