LaMarcus Aldridge will get a fresh start in likely trade ahead of deadline

The San Antonio Spurs and LaMarcus Aldridge have agreed to part ways. A trade is likely coming. 

LaMarcus Aldridge has been a part of a number of trade rumors throughout the past couple of seasons, with the seven-time All-Star being unable to find his form from previous years.

Now, San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich has confirmed that both the organization and Aldridge have agreed to try and find the former All-Star a new home.

"“He’s been a great teammate. No problem there,” Popovich said during his virtual pregame media availability. “We just think this is a win-win for both LaMarcus and the club. When an opportunity arises, that’ll be up to management, his agent and that sort of thing, and we’ll all move forward.”"

Aldridge has been absent for eight of the Spurs’ last 11 games, as he has been dealing with injuries. The former All-Star’s production has declined from previous years, with Aldridge only averaging 13.7 points and 4.5 rebounds per game this season across 21 games. His scoring average is the lowest it has been since his rookie season with the Portland Trail Blazers.

This drop in performance, in addition to his expiring $24 million contract makes Aldridge a prime candidate to be traded. The veteran’s age also does not fit into the long-term plans of the San Antonio Spurs.

Popovich via ESPN:

"“He’s done everything we’ve asked,” Popovich said. “At this point, we’d just like to do something that will work for him as much for our club, because he deserves that.”"

This agreement from the two parties to part ways allows both the Spurs and Aldridge to move on, as the team looks to build with its young core. Meanwhile, Aldridge will have the opportunity to help another team out that could be in contention for a championship.

The move will mark the end of Aldridge’s five-year stint with the Spurs after he joined the team through the free agency back in 2015. Since joining the team, the forward has averaged 19.5 points and 8.0 rebounds.

While his stats may be declining, Aldridge would still provide plenty of veteran leadership and skill for a team looking for an extra piece to make that next step.