LaMarcus Aldridge and San Antonio reached agreement on a three-year extension Monday that ensures the five-time All-Star will be under contract through the 2020-21 season.
The agreement involves Aldridge exercising the 2018-19 player option on the original four-year max deal he signed with the Spurs in 2015. He then will get another two years and $50 million tacked on to the deal, a person with knowledge of the agreement told the Associated Press.
When the Spurs beat out other suitors for Aldridge, it was a departure from the franchise's long history of drafting and developing its stars. With Tim Duncan nearing retirement and Kawhi Leonard emerging as the team's next focal point, the Spurs splurged for the free agent from the Trail Blazers.
Aldridge was an All-Star in his first season in San Antonio, but his individual numbers declined significantly. Last year, he averaged 17.3 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, both career lows. But the Spurs won 61 games and went to the Western Conference finals.
Aldridge, 32, and coach Gregg Popovich met this fall to find ways to make him feel more comfortable and effective. The dialogue helped strengthen their relationship and made Aldridge feel open to staying in San Antonio.
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• Cleveland coach Tyronn Lue said he isn't sure LeBron James will play in Tuesday's season opener against Boston and former Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving. The Cavs superstar has been slowed by a sprained left ankle suffered in practice on Sept. 27 and played in only one of five exhibition games.
• Memphis waived a pair of 2016 draft picks, including guard Wade Baldwin IV, the No. 17 overall selection.
• Utah guard Dante Exum will have surgery to repair a separated left shoulder.
