Santi Aldama is embracing a new chapter with the Dallas Mavericks after spending the first five seasons of his NBA career with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Aldama was acquired by Dallas in a six-team trade during the offseason and spoke about the transition during Mavericks media day on Friday. He said the move brought mixed emotions after five years in Memphis but that he is excited about what comes next.
“Everything happened super fast even during the summertime. So it was weird because it was the first time happening to me. A lot of emotions,” Aldama said.
He added that he was “super thankful to Memphis and the Grizzlies just because it had been my home for 5 years” while also expressing excitement about joining Dallas.
“But at the same time happy for what’s new. Happy for just a new chapter moving here,” Aldama said. “Obviously the organization super high level and you know we have a lot of people that are new here and that are really excited to do nice stuff and win.”
Aldama will also have a familiar Spanish connection in Dallas in rookie Sergio de Larrea, whom the Mavericks acquired with the No. 25 pick in the draft. Aldama previously played with de Larrea and said he is trying to help him adjust to the NBA.
“Rookie year is tough and I’m just trying to help him out in any way I can. But he’s a pro, so I know he got it figured out,” Aldama said. “It’s super exciting, I think, for the both of us to be able to be in the NBA together at the same time. That’s rare and we’re excited.”
Aldama also highlighted what de Larrea can bring on the court, particularly his size and passing ability.
“He’s a super tall guard that’s pass first and you don’t see many pass first guards that are that tall,” Aldama said. “Super good court vision and is always willing to do what it takes to help the team.”
Aldama believes the NBA environment could further accentuate de Larrea’s strengths.
“Once he gets acclimated to the NBA game, he’s going to do it even better just because the court’s bigger,” Aldama said. “Threats around the court are better. So he’s just going to pick his spots and pick what teammates are open and he’s just going to make the right read every time.”
The 25-year-old forward is also working his way back from an injury. He said his progress is continuing but that his availability for the start of training camp remains a medical decision.
“I’m working on it. You know it’s been a long summer in that sense but I’m working every day and I’m feeling better every day,” Aldama said.
Asked whether he would be a full participant in training camp, Aldama said it remains “TBD more on the medical side.”
“I’m doing a bunch of stuff on the court right now, so yeah, just excited to get there every day, get better every day, and then be at 100% as soon as possible,” he said.
Aldama averaged a career-high 14.0 points and 6.7 rebounds in 43 games for Memphis last season, while shooting 47.9% from the field and 35.0% from three-point range. Across five NBA seasons, he has averaged 10.4 points and 5.4 rebounds in 278 games.
He said the Mavericks’ roster gives him plenty to look forward to alongside Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving.
“I think we have a very complete roster with a lot of guys that can do a lot of different things,” Aldama said. “Obviously Coop and Kyrie, they’re two greats that I don’t really have to talk about them, but just seeing how everything flows.”
He added: “A group of good people that are going to be very united. I think it’s going to be very special to see it play out, play out and just fun basketball to be seen.”
