All-Star forward LaMarcus Aldridge will meet with the Toronto Raptors in addition to the Knicks, Lakers, and Mavericks as free agency kicks off later this week, via Ken Berger of CBSSports.com
Can confirm the Raptors have joined teams securing a free-agent meeting with LaMarcus Aldridge. Toronto contingent lined up for July 1.
— Ken Berger (@KBergCBS) June 29, 2015
Aldridge is the most sought-after free agent on the market, due to the players higher than him on our Top 40 being unlikely to change teams. It's a pretty big deal just for the Raptors to get the meeting, as they have struggled for years to attract marquee free agents even for discussions. Aldridge would join All-Star Kyle Lowry and Demar DeRozan to form a Norther Big 3 and with Jonas Valanciunas beside him, make for one of the most dominant frontcourt pairings in the Eastern Conference.
Weather and a tough tax system have impacted free agent interest before, but Toronto would provide a middle-ground between small-market Portland and teams like the Lakers and Knicks whose media scrutiny and overwhelming fanbase create high-pressure fishbowls for some personalities. Aldridge is said to be much more relaxed and laid back, but is clearly looking for a place where his star can shine brighter on a team with a realistic chance at a title.
There's no frontcourt logjam like there is with Dallas and Dirk Nowitzki in Toronto, nor is Lowry a star that will outshine Aldridge like Kobe Bryant in LA or Carmelo Anthony in New York. The Raptors have a stunningly passionate fanbase, and their ownership group, Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment, has pumped a lot of money into the franchise to upgrade its resources and facilities.
Usually the initial answer to everything from Toronto is "no" but it does appear that may be changing. Aldridge would do well to consider the Raptors a serious option as a landing spot that fits a lot of his interests on and off the court.