Blake ready for the next chapter – Griffin reacts to stunning Pistons trade
Blake Griffin expressed his gratitude to the Los Angeles Clippers and their fans but said he is “ready for the next chapter” after his stunning trade to the Detroit Pistons.
The Clippers traded Griffin for Tobias Harris, Avery Bradley, Boban Marjanovic, a first-round pick and a second-round pick. Detroit also acquired Brice Johnson and Willie Reed in the trade.
Detroit placed Bradley on the trading block on Monday after acquiring the former Boston Celtics star in July for Marcus Morris. Bradley has struggled with his shot and staying on the court this season.
Griffin, a first overall pick in the 2009 draft, has spent his entire career with the Clippers, earning five All-Star berths during his time with the team.
The 28-year-old said he needed some time “to digest and reflect on what happened” before looking back on the memories of his spell in Los Angeles.
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— Blake Griffin (@blakegriffin32) January 30, 2018
“From being a #1 pick, to Lob City, to six straight Playoff appearances, I am so proud to have been part of the success of the Clippers organisation,” Griffin wrote on Twitter.
“LA has been my home since I started in the league and I will be forever grateful to the city for embracing me and supporting me.
“Now I’m ready for the next chapter, getting to work and helping the Detroit Pistons make a run in the Eastern Conference.”
Griffin is second on the Clippers’ all-time scoring list (10,863) and third in rebounds (4,686) in 504 games with the franchise.
While expectations have dipped a bit in recent years as Griffin has battled injuries — he has not played more than 67 games since 2013-14 — he will be expected to be the saviour in Detroit.
The Pistons are ninth in the Eastern Conference with a 22-26 record.
