The LaMarcus Aldrdige debacle
LA’s (or LMA’s, whatever you prefer) decision came just on the brink of social media and news intertwining in the NBA landscape.
Reported just days before NBA Free Agency began, Portland thought LA was leaving:
"They said that he doesn’t believe the Blazers can attract top free agents to improve the team, that he feels somewhat underappreciated by the organization and that he simply is looking for a new environment to live in."
That’s quite a statement in hindsight. The pride for Portland is strong, even as a “small-market” team. The same can be said for Utah.
These free agent departures hurt.
Aldridge made a pledge a year prior to stick with the Blazers, and seek a deal to keep him in Portland long-term. Hayward gave hope after backtracking, when (it seems) he was leaving the whole time.
How did Aldridge do in Portland? Nine seasons. 19.4 points and 8.4 rebounds per game. Four All-Star selections. Placed in MVP award voting twice (finishing as high as seventh for the 2014-15 season). Three All-NBA selections, two third-team one second-team.
How did Hayward do in Utah? Seven seasons. 15.7 points per game, 4.2 rebounds and 3.4 assists. One All-Star.
Most importantly, with both, is the time poured in by team personnel to make them the players they are today. They provided them with the tools to succeed. And the fans of Portland/Utah provided them with endless cheers.
And you know what? Both player exercised their right to sign with any team they want — but it still doesn’t take the sting out of the departures.
Next: Rockets use Portland's pick to select Dillon Brooks, then trade him
So, Utah, we do know how you feel. But for every Gordon Hayward and LaMarcus Aldridge, there’s a Damian Lillard and Rudy Gobert waiting to make it their team.
Time will tell if Gobert really does take over the Jazz as his team, but from our experience, we know when the first guy goes, the second guy shines.