Blake Griffin to remain out of Pistons lineup until they can trade him
By John Buhler
After parts of four seasons with the Detroit Pistons, Blake Griffin is on his way out.
The Detroit Pistons will hold out power forward Blake Griffin until they are able to trade him.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported on Monday that Griffin’s time in Detroit is coming to an end. The former No. 1 overall pick came to the Pistons by way of the Los Angeles Clippers in January 2018. He played in 138 games for the Pistons over parts of four seasons, averaging 20.7 points, 6.7 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game in 33.3 minutes per contest. Griffin will turn 32 in March.
“After extensive conversation with Blake’s representatives, it has been determined that we will begin working to facilitate a resolution regarding his future with the team that maximizes the interests of both parties,” said Pistons general manager Troy Weaver to ESPN on Monday. “We respect all the effort Blake has put forth in Detroit and his career and will work to achieve a positive outcome for all involved.”
“I am grateful to the Pistons for understanding what I want to accomplish in my career and for working together on the best path forward,” said Griffin in a statement to ESPN.
Blake Griffin is a Hall of Famer, but injuries have certainly taken a toll on him
Griffin is only two years removed from a sixth NBA All-Star game appearance. While he is no longer the same above-the-rim player he was in his youth for the Clippers coming out of Oklahoma, Griffin showed that he could evolve and pivot his game. He has become a solid 3-point shooter from the power forward position, as well as an adept-passing big man in his early 30s.
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Because the Pistons are in the mix for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, they are not going to jeopardize their chances to land someone like Cade Cunningham out of Oklahoma State University. While Griffin is no longer the player he was in his athletic prime for the Clippers, the Pistons should be able to get something of value by way of a trade for one of their better assets.
Look for Griffin to join his third NBA team within the coming weeks if the Pistons can trade him.