LaMarcus Aldridge Trade Rumors: Spurs Reportedly Shopped Star for Top-5 Pick

Following his disappointing showing in the postseason, the San Antonio Spurs have discussed LaMarcus Aldridge in trade talks, Arizona Sports 98.7's John Gambadoro‏ reported Wednesday.

According to Gambadoro‏, the Spurs were looking to receive a top-five pick in the 2017 NBA draft in return for the five-time All-Star. Sam Amico of Amico Hoops reported the Sacramento Kings could be among the teams interested in the 31-year-old.

On Thursday, Ramona Shelburne and Michael C. Wright of ESPN reported the Spurs have spoken to "at least three teams" regarding Aldridge.

When he signed with the Spurs in 2015, many expected Aldridge to play a starring role for the Spurs alongside Kawhi Leonard. He had a strong debut season in San Antonio, averaging 18.0 points and 8.5 rebounds a game.

Aldridge took a step backward in 2016-17, however. His 17.3 points and 7.3 rebounds a game were his fewest since his rookie season.

He also received heavy criticism as the Spurs exited the Western Conference Finals in four games at the hands of the Golden State Warriors. Aldridge struggled to help fill the void left by Leonard after he injured his ankle in Game 1. Aldridge averaged 15.5 points and 5.8 rebounds and shot 41.3 percent from the field for the series.

Keeping Aldridge through the summer wouldn't be a bad move for the Spurs since he's still a consistent post scorer and rebounder.

Trading him, on the other hand, would mean freeing up a little over $21.4 million in salary cap space, per Spotrac. Creating more financial flexibility will likely be necessary if San Antonio wants to pursue a marquee free agent this offseason.