With one roster space open, the Boston Celtics may attempt to bring back a familiar face to help their playoff hopes. Rob Greene of Sports Illustrated suggested that the Celtics bring back Blake Griffin, a six-time NBA all-star.
Greene discussed Griffin’s rapport with Celtics players and personnel, which may figure into a prospective reunion.
“Entering the six-time All-Star’s only Celtics season last year, Griffin emphasized how he and Stevens have had respect for one other and stayed in touch throughout the years. Griffin has also maintained tight relationships with several Celtics players,” Greene wrote in a February 1 piece.
Greene then stated why the Celtics decided to add him. He added that Griffin’s contributions extend beyond the basketball floor.
“With this championship-hungry Celtics squad, Griffin once again brings consistency to the frontcourt while boosting Boston’s interior for any remaining issues. His presence gives invaluable guidance while also providing another suitable option for the second unit, which is perhaps the deepest squad in the NBA.
“With one open roster spot and limited options to fill it, a reunion with Griffin could prove the Celtics’ most beneficial move.”
Griffin appeared on six NBA All-Star teams during his time with the Los Angeles Clippers and Detroit Pistons. Griffin isn’t that player anymore, but he provided solid frontcourt depth for the Celtics in 2022-23.
Blake Griffin loved playing in Boston.
Despite his decision not to return to the Celtics, Blake Griffin enjoyed playing in Boston. Griffin raved about his time with the Celtics during an interview with Dan Rappoport of Barstool Sports.
“Dude, Boston is unbelievable. Living in Boston and playing in Boston were some of the best experiences. Dude, those fans are fantastic. Having a team so intent on winning championships. One of the best elements is that the players on that team are simply such a great bunch of guys.”
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72625363/1250204178.0.jpg)
While gushing about the Celtics, he mentioned how much he respects Jayson Tatum.
“A person like Jayson Tatum, a legitimate superstar, yet very humble. Talks with everyone on the team. Talks to the entire workforce. He would go sit down and talk to anybody. He’s not only hanging around with Marcus (Smart) and Jaylen Brown.”
Griffin had never gone as far in the postseason as he did with the Celtics.
Celtics ‘Search for Additional Frontcourt Depth’: Report
Whether or not they recruit Blake Griffin, NBA Insider Marc Stein reports that they desire more frontcourt depth. However, Stein reiterated that they are unwilling to give with much.
“The Celtics, meantime, are looking for more frontcourt depth but may have to rely on trade exceptions to fill the deficit. In any potential future trades, Boston is thought to be willing simply to part with players on the most minimal contracts,” Stein wrote in a February 1 story.
Stein did not mention anyone specifically, but nominal contracts are most likely referring to players earning the veteran’s minimum, more or less. Players such as Luke Kornet, Oshae Brissett, Dalano Banton, Svi Mykhailiuk, and Lamar Stevens meet the criteria. They don’t have a lot of options, but if they deal the majority of those players, it may also open the door for Griffin’s comeback.
Leave a Reply