LaMarcus Aldridge, Spurs Agree To Three-Year Extension

LaMarcus Aldridge is staying in San Antonio for another three years.

LaMarcus Aldrdige Spurs Extension News

The five-time All-Star forward signed an extension with the Spurs through the 2020-21 season, a deal reportedly worth $72.3 million.

Aldridge, 32, has been with the Spurs since 2015. The former No. 2 overall pick joined the team after nine seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers.

“I’m happy to be here,” Aldridge told reporters Tuesday. “It worked out for both sides. I feel like this preseason has been great for myself. Trying to find my rhythm, be myself. I feel like the offense has had some tweaks where I’m feeling more comfortable, helping the team. Pop [coach Gregg Popovich] told me he was happy about it.”

According to ESPN, Aldridge will opt into the $22.3 million player option on his 2018-19 contract, and the extension’s new terms will start with the 2019-20 season. He is scheduled to earn $21.4 million this season.

Aldridge has allegedly been discontent with the Spurs at times during his two years with the team thus far. He averaged  17.3 points and 7.3 rebounds for the Spurs last season. In his 11-year career in the NBA, he has averaged 19.1 points and 8.3 rebounds.

Meanwhile, 37-year-old center Pau Gasol recently opted out of the $15.5 million final year of his deal with the Spurs, in theory so that he could restructure to take less annual money to help the Spurs sign free agent talent. However, this never materialized.

The Spurs won their last preseason game against the Rockets in Houston on Friday, and will host the Minnesota Timberwolves for their season opener on Wednesday night.

HOUSTON, TX – MAY 11: LaMarcus Aldridge #12 of the San Antonio Spurs reacts against the Houston Rockets during Game Six of the NBA Western Conference Semi-Finals at Toyota Center on May 11, 2017 in Houston, Texas.