Too much Aldridge for Bulls

The Spurs demand selfless play from the entire roster — except LaMarcus Aldridge.

In fact, San Antonio likes it when the 6-foot-10 forward gets a little aggressive — and his performance on Sunday showed why.

Aldridge had a season-high 33 points and the Spurs held on to beat the Chicago Bulls 119-100 on Christmas Day after nearly blowing a hot start.

“When a player goes off like LaMarcus did today, it opens things up,” said Spurs center Pau Gasol. “It definitely creates an impact right away.”

Chicago rallied from a 20-point deficit to lead by three midway through the third quarter but could not sustain the push, taking its third straight loss.

Aldridge had his second-highest scoring output since joining the Spurs ahead of last season. He made his first nine attempts while scoring 20 points in the opening period, his most in any quarter with the Spurs.

Aldridge has struggled at times to manage his aggression with coach Gregg Popovich’s “good-togreat” shot philosophy, but he found a balance against the Bulls.

“Pop is very picky on what is a good shot at times,” Aldridge said.

“Of course, I have a little leeway, but it’s tough for me because I always feel like I’m open even when a guy’s guarding me. I’m trying not to be myself as much to take those tough shots.”