The Spurs signing LaMarcus Aldridge would be a real long shot

Nothing soothes the pain of playoff elimination like the thought of landing a big name free agent. Especially when an all-time great like Tim Duncan would have the chance to pass on the tricks of his trade to one of the league's best young power forwards, LaMarcus Aldridge. At first blush, it seems like a perfect match since the Spurs have so many free agents and the Trail Blazers' big man has been so standoffish about his intentions, which has lead to much discussion from the well-connected.

Earlier this week, I received an invitation from Chris Lucia of the Blazer's Edge podcast to discuss all of the reasons that it's not something I expect to happen. I talk about the last time Manu Ginobili was a free agent and relate that to Aldridge's current situation, because I think the two are closely related. I'm pretty sure I butcher the salary cap numbers, so if you haven't already read Michael Erler's rundown of the salary cap numbers, you most definitely should.

You can listen to it right here by pressing play below:

The direct .mp3 link to a recording of the podcast is here for those who like to download it.

If you want to check out the Portland fans' reaction to the podcast, head on over here, and as always -- be polite.