LaMarcus Aldridge Wants Out of Portland, and Hopes to Land in Chicago, Per Report

"Word is, Aldridge wants to escape from Portland’s rebuilding project and has made it known that he’d like to land in Chicago. Deng for Aldridge won’t get it done. The Blazers want Joakim Noah in return and the Bulls don’t want to give up the superior defensive big man. Here’s one way to get Portland’s attention: Offer Deng and Charlotte’s future No. 1 pick. The Bulls are counting on that Bobcats’ pick (acquired for Thomas, ironically), to pay off big, because it’s unprotected in 2016."

Seems like a big-time longshot. I’m not sure why Aldridge would want out, seeing as Portland has a solid nucleus of the rookie of the year and Nic Batum. (Obviously, Chicago is much more loaded, but they’d have to move Heaven and Earth to get Aldridge.) Sure, there’s no bench, but the West is getting old (San Antonio, LA Lakers) and who knows if Denver and Houston and Memphis will build on their good seasons, or head the other direction. The Blazers are a good draft pick and free agent away from making a run at a playoff spot. [via Daily Herald]