Egos are taking a backseat in Brooklyn for a shot at the title, as LaMarcus Aldridge explained, “We’re all here to win.”
Alridge spoke for the first time as a Net to the media Tuesday afternoon and squashed any possibility that Brooklyn’s lineup of current and former All-Stars might have issues sharing playing time or the ball.
“I’m not here to be an All-Star,” said Aldridge. “I’m just trying to bring the value, the things I’m good at.”
In his 15th year in the league, Aldridge was averaging 13.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists as a Spur before having his contract bought out.
“My whole time there [San Antonio] was great,” said Aldridge.
The 6-foot-11 forward/center touched on defensive skills, discipline, and tactics for beating a really good team as some of the many lessons he learned in San Antonio.
“Everything I did there and learned there will definitely help here,” said Aldridge. ”
The 35-year-old expects to utilize more of his outside game and shoot fewer midrange jumpers.
“We had already kind of started that process [shooting 3-pointers] in San Antonio. I’m all on board for it. I’ve already worked on it,” said Aldridge.
Aldridge shouldn’t have too much trouble getting open from behind the arc with all the attention Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving will demand.
The seven-time All-Star said he considered several teams, but KD and the rest of the Nets all encouraged him to sign with Brooklyn.
“It’s an opportunity to be on a winning team and bring some things I think I could help with, said Aldridge. “I help fill a void as a bigger five man that can score and play defense,” responded Aldridge when he was asked about playing alongside DeAndre Jordan.
Aldridge believes the team’s maturity will be a huge factor during the post-season. ” I don’t think any guys are taking it for granted. Everyone’s all in for sure.”