The Detroit Pistons 2019-20 NBA campaign is far from impressive and roster tweaks may be needed. At 12-23, changes could be forthcoming. One player that the ballclub may want to take a second look at is Blake Griffin.
Acquired in 2018, Griffin has slowed down since the end of the last NBA season. Injuries have taken its toll on the top pick of the 2009 NBA Draft, slowing him down and forcing him to below-average numbers. The 30-year-old forward holds career averages of 21.7 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists. For the current season, he has managed to produce only 15.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists according to Basketball-Reference.com.
Unless Griffin finds a way to normalize his numbers, the Pistons may want to revisit their future with the former NBA Slam Dunk champion. Griffin has been known to bulldoze his way to the basket although he has added a three-point shot to his repertoire. But the fact that he spends more time in sickbay is a concern, meaning his remaining $128 million contract is going to waste.
Owed a huge amount of money, the case of Griffin seems a bit similar to that of Kevin Love of the Cleveland Cavaliers. With huge money owed to the six-time NBA All-Star, teams may be turned off when it comes to exploring trades. Most know the damage the 6-foot-9 forward can do when healthy. But it appears that is the problem right now - his health.
Also, Detroit may take a big hit if it tries to trade Griffin. Teams may only be interested in a deal that includes a future pick. This could hamper the outlook of the Pistons as far as its rebuilding efforts are concerned. They could save money but their NBA rise will take some time, The Athletic reported.
Griffin is under contract until the 2021-22 NBA season. He will become an unrestricted free agent in 2022, likely to be offered a short-term and/or cheaper deal. Unless he finds a way to stay healthy, it is a reality that the burly forward has to realize.
As for the Pistons, rebuilding yet again is frustrating. Hopes were high seeing Griffin combining with resident center Andre Drummond. But with Griffin missing time, the frontline is severely hampered. No team has expressed interest in the former Oklahoma Sooner and it is hardly surprising with his contract and injury problems.
