The Los Angeles Lakers appear to be developing interest in a surprising player from the Memphis Grizzlies.
Memphis kicked off its 2024-25 season successfully on Wednesday, edging out the Utah Jazz with a score of 126-124.
Ja Morant showcased his health and athleticism, contributing 22 points and 10 assists on 7-for-12 shooting in just 28 minutes.
However, Morant wasn’t the top scorer for the Grizzlies; that distinction went to Santi Aldama, who delivered an impressive 27 points with a standout 5-for-10 from three-point range.
At just 23 years old, Aldama has begun to emerge as a genuine NBA scorer, and performances like his recent one will likely garner him more recognition in the basketball community.
Standing 7 feet tall, the Spanish forward offers exceptional shooting ability, alongside a strong basketball IQ and rebounding skills. He is in his fourth year and has not reached a rookie extension agreement with Memphis. According to Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, Aldama could command a three-year, $40 million contract next summer, and the Lakers are mentioned as a viable option for him.
Pincus noted, “Santi Aldama’s height at 7’0″ makes him more of an offensive asset than a defensive powerhouse. He can stretch the floor but needs to enhance his shooting accuracy (34.9 percent from three last year).”
“Given his significant minutes with the injury-plagued Grizzlies, he might remain with the team, even with a crowded frontcourt (Zach Edey, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Brandon Clarke).”
“Teams interested in Aldama are likely to have the $14.1 million projected non-taxpayer mid-level exception available.”
Contract Forecast: Three years at $40 million. Possible Destinations: Brooklyn Nets, Charlotte Hornets, Chicago Bulls, Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Lakers, Sacramento Kings, Toronto Raptors, Memphis Grizzlies.
Aldama is currently in the final year of his four-year, $10.2 million rookie contract with Memphis.