Blake Griffin trade rumors: 5 trade possible destinations

While Blake Griffin will probably not want to play for a franchise at this stage of his career that hasn’t made the Western Conference Playoffs in over a decade, a deal between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Minnesota Timberwolves could prove to be mutually beneficial for both clubs.

Minnesota would have to send either Andrew Wiggins or Karl-Anthony Towns, along with an unprotected first round pick to acquire Griffin in a trade, but it could prove solid for both the Clippers and the Timberwolves in the longterm.

Wiggins could stand as the star small forward that the Clippers desperately need to assert themselves in a deep Western Conference. The Clippers could build around him once point guard Chris Paul is past his prime. Towns could stand as a possible replacement for Griffin at the four to play alongside center DeAndre Jordan. It would be mighty tough to score on the Clippers in the paint on a Jordan/Towns frontcourt.

Griffin would have an opportunity to play for a franchise probably on the rise in 2016-17. He’ll be the biggest name to play for the Timberwolves since Kevin Love and could do something that Love wasn’t able to in his time in Minneapolis: get the Wolves to the NBA Playoffs.

Griffin would have a great passing point guard in Ricky Rubio, as well as either Wiggins or Towns to play alongside in the starting lineup. Hypothetically like in a trade to Orlando, Griffin’s arrival in Minnesota would give the Timberwolves instant credibility and its best chance to make the Western Conference Playoffs in a decade.

In Minnesota, Griffin would have to opportunity to be the brightest star on his own team, not having to share it with Paul or Jordan like he does in Los Angeles. This move could make both the Clippers and Timberwolves playoff caliber teams for the next five or so years.

Next: 3. Indiana Pacers