In the 2006 NBA Draft, Aldridge was selected as the second overall pick by the Chicago Bulls but was immediately traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. This trade marked the beginning of his long and productive career in the NBA. Aldridge quickly established himself as a reliable player for the Trail Blazers, known for his scoring ability, rebounding, and defensive presence. His mid-range jump shot became a signature aspect of his game, making him a consistent scoring threat.
Throughout his time with the Trail Blazers, Aldridge developed into one of the team's leading players. He was named an NBA All-Star multiple times during his tenure in Portland, highlighting his status as one of the league's top players. Aldridge's partnership with fellow Trail Blazer Brandon Roy was particularly noteworthy, as the duo led the team to several playoff appearances. Despite facing injuries and challenges, Aldridge's performance remained steady, and he became one of the franchise's all-time leading scorers.
In 2015, Aldridge made a significant career move by signing with the San Antonio Spurs as a free agent. Joining the Spurs allowed him to play under the guidance of legendary coach Gregg Popovich and alongside established stars like Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginóbili. Aldridge's presence bolstered the Spurs' frontcourt, and he continued to be a key player for the team. His time in San Antonio was marked by consistent playoff appearances and further All-Star selections.
Aldridge's ability to adapt his game to fit the Spurs' system demonstrated his basketball intelligence and versatility. He played a crucial role in maintaining the team's competitive edge in the Western Conference. During his stint with the Spurs, Aldridge reached the Western Conference Finals in 2017, although the team fell short of reaching the NBA Finals.
In March 2021, Aldridge and the Spurs mutually agreed to part ways, leading to his signing with the Brooklyn Nets. His time with the Nets was brief, as he announced his retirement in April 2021 due to health concerns related to an irregular heartbeat. However, in September 2021, Aldridge was medically cleared to return to basketball and re-signed with the Nets. His return was met with enthusiasm from fans and teammates, as he provided valuable experience and depth to the team's roster.
Aldridge's career spanned over a decade and a half, during which he earned numerous accolades, including multiple All-NBA Team selections. His scoring ability, particularly in the post and mid-range, made him a difficult matchup for opponents. Aldridge's rebounding and shot-blocking skills also contributed to his reputation as a well-rounded player.
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