Why LaMarcus Aldridge should sign with the Phoenix Suns
4. He has connections to Phoenix
While Aldridge might be from Texas and San Antonio certainly makes sense to be a favorite because of it, Aldridge does have connections with the Suns organization that could prove to be the turning point that allows him to become a member of the Suns organization.
The first is the obvious with Tyson Chandler. While they may have never played together, the two are reportedly friends and the fact that they have a desire to play on the same team goes a long way. Bringing Chandler to the meeting with the Suns was a big move for the organization, and one that could be the ultimate tipping point.
Another person in the meeting that could help land Aldridge is Earl Watson. The former guard played with Aldridge at the end of his career in Portland, and was said to be an influential member on the team, which helped lead to a coaching career. He is now a member of the Suns organization.
The move to bring Watson to the meeting was considered by many to be much like the Chandler inclusion, a great move and one that impressed Aldridge greatly.
Lastly, the final connection to Aldridge is Suns forward P.J. Tucker. Tucker played with Aldridge at Texas, and the two go a long way back. In fact, Tucker has been posting photos of himself and Aldridge to Instagram in an effort to bring the big man to Phoenix.
It’s possible Tucker could be part of a sign-and-trade for Aldridge so Phoenix can make the cap work, but it’s far more likely a piece like Markieff Morris gets moved instead.
Aldridge may have a home in Texas, but he also has people in the Phoenix organization that he knows and trusts. That could go a long way in his decision process.
5. He can build his legacy greater than anywhere else
The San Antonio Spurs are one of the greatest organizations off all time. They have five championships and a plethora of great players and a legendary coach that helped make that dream come true for them. In San Antonio, Aldridge could certainly have a chance to bring them one more title, but he wouldn’t build his legacy there.
The Spurs legacy is built on the shoulders of David Robinson, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobli, Tony Parker and Gregg Popovich. That legacy won’t include Aldridge because he came at the very end of it.
In Phoenix, they’re searching for that first ring after 47 years of being good but not good enough. By building toward it, he could cement himself a legacy in Phoenix that could potentially lead to him becoming a franchise hero. He would no doubt be a hero in San Antonio, but it wouldn’t feel the same as going to a team that needs that player more than ever.
He could be the hero Phoenix needs.