Over the past few weeks three big name players were expected to be bought out and then subsequently join contenders.
The first domino to drop was Blake Griffin, who promptly linked up with the Brooklyn Nets.
This past week, the San Antonio Spurs parted ways with LaMarcus Aldridge and the Cleveland Cavaliers cut ties with Andre Drummond.
Aldridge was viewed as a legitimately viable option for three squads: the Nets, Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers.
Ultimately, he settled on the Nets.
On Saturday night, fans got a bit of an explanation regarding the rationale behind that choice.
“I asked Aldridge associate what changed his mind from original expectation that he would sign with Heat, which was expected by the Heat,” NBA insider Barry Jackson tweeted.
“He said was convinced to join Brooklyn because they are in good position to compete for a championship. Heat recent losing streak didn’t help.”
Which makes sense.
Ahead of #UFC260 let’s see what Paige VanZant has been up to since leaving the promotion. https://t.co/5YLwWtLaGf
— Game 7 (@game7__) March 27, 2021
Similarly, Aldridge was less inclined to join the Lakers because he believed they coveted another big man over him. Ultimately, he was right.
The Nets have an objectively stacked unit. It looks so good on paper that even LeBron James’ son, Bronny, felt the need to comment on it.
Will this stacked-on-paper group ultimately be able to put it all together and win a title?
Time will tell.
Related: Dennis Schroder Responds To Lakers Trying To Trade Him
Charles Kruger has been credentialed to cover two Super Bowls, four NBA Finals, and one World Series. A 20-year veteran in the sports world, he has sources spanning the NBA, MLB, NFL, UFC and NASCAR. Currently residing in Los Angeles, Calif., he is Game 7’s go-to source for rumors surrounding the Lakers, Clippers and Dodgers.