Raptors: 2 pros and cons of trading for LaMarcus Aldridge

Anti-Aldridge point No. 2: He’s old and pricy. Who would Toronto trade?

Aldridge is in his age-35 season, and he is clearly not the player he once was. If that wasn’t enough red flags that should give prospective buyers pause for thought, the fact that he’s owed an insane $24 million this season could make it very difficult for the Raptors to make the money match up.

If the Raptors don’t trade a star player, which would be a very foolish move, Toronto might have to flip a bunch of their reserves in order to acquire him. The Raptors could accidentally commit subtraction by addition if they get this deal for Aldridge consummated.

Aldridge might cost way too much for the Raptors

Even if the Spurs throw in a younger player in order to entice the Raptors to take on his contract, that might not be the best value, as someone in his 15th season making $24 million while coming off of a recent benching is by no means a very attractive trade target.

Trading one of the top four players in this trade would be ridiculous, but their fifth-most expensive contract is Baynes at around $7 million. The Raptors would have to combine a lot of assets in order to acquire him, which could be killer for a roster that is already lacking depth in several key areas.