LaMarcus Aldridge Builds His Ultimate Starting Lineup With Four 'Top 75' Players

LaMarcus Aldridge had the privilege of playing alongside some of the NBA’s all-time greats during his illustrious career. Recently, he was asked to build his ultimate starting lineup consisting of his former teammates on the 'Knuckleheads podcast. Aldridge didn’t hesitate to stack his squad with some of the biggest names in basketball, crafting a dream lineup that features four NBA Top 75 players: Damian Lillard, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Tim Duncan, and of course, Aldridge himself.

At point guard, Aldridge selected Damian Lillard, his former teammate from their time together with the Portland Trail Blazers. Lillard is widely regarded as one of the most clutch players in NBA history, with an incredible ability to hit deep three-pointers and lead his team in critical moments. 

Lillard’s scoring prowess, particularly in crunch time, would make him the ideal floor general for Aldridge’s ultimate lineup. The two played together during Aldridge's final years in Portland, with Lillard quickly rising to become one of the league’s premier point guards, making this choice a natural fit.

At the small forward position, Aldridge chose Kevin Durant, arguably one of the most talented and versatile scorers the game has ever seen. Aldridge played alongside Durant for a brief period when he signed with the Brooklyn Nets in the later stages of his career. Durant’s ability to score from virtually anywhere on the court, combined with his seven-foot frame and elite defense, makes him an unstoppable force. 

His inclusion in Aldridge's ultimate lineup provides the team with elite shooting, defense, and playmaking. With Durant’s basketball IQ and knack for stepping up in big moments, he brings a championship mentality to this star-studded lineup.

At power forward, Aldridge selected Kawhi Leonard, his teammate during their time with the San Antonio Spurs. Leonard is renowned for his defensive prowess, earning multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards, while also being an efficient scorer and Finals MVP. 

Leonard's calm demeanor and ability to dominate both ends of the floor would complement Aldridge’s inside-out game perfectly. Known for his elite defense and ability to take over games in the playoffs, Leonard brings a championship pedigree and the versatility to defend multiple positions, further strengthening this lineup.

No ultimate lineup featuring LaMarcus Aldridge would be complete without the inclusion of Tim Duncan, widely regarded as one of the best power forwards in NBA history. Duncan was Aldridge’s mentor when he first joined the Spurs, and his leadership and fundamentals are unparalleled. 

Aldridge placed Duncan at center in this dream lineup, taking advantage of his unmatched skills in the paint, rebounding, and shot-blocking. Duncan’s quiet leadership, consistency, and basketball IQ are legendary, making him the perfect anchor for this lineup. His five NBA championships speak volumes about his ability to lead a team to victory.

Finally, Aldridge includes himself in this elite lineup. As a versatile power forward/center, Aldridge was known for his smooth mid-range jump shot, post moves, and ability to stretch the floor. His ability to play both inside and out, combined with his rebounding and defense, makes him the perfect complement to the other stars in this lineup. Aldridge’s offensive skill set would thrive with so many talented playmakers and scorers around him, giving the team another reliable scoring option and inside presence.