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From Miami Heat to Dallas Mavericks: Teams Who Might be Interested to Bring In Star Forward Blake Griffin

Published 02/15/2021, 7:48 PM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

Not long ago, Blake Griffin was considered as one of the best power forwards in the NBA. But the last two years have been disappointing for the Pistons’ forward as he is averaging career lows across the board.

In the 20 games he has played, Griffin is averaging a dismal 12.3 points. 3.9, assists and 5.2 rebounds per game. Considering that two years ago, he was averaging about 24.5 points. 5.4 assists and 7.5 rebounds per game, such a drop-off is truly shocking.

With new signing Jerami Grant replacing him as the primary option for the Pistons, the disgruntled Griffin has opted to stay out of the lineup until his future is determined with the organization according to Adrian Wojnarowski.

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Getting out of the Pistons might be one of the biggest boosts for Griffin’s career and the ideal next move for him. He can be a big help for a more competitive team and might see a jump in a better suited team.

The option left with the Pistons’ organization meanwhile is to trade the 31-year-old or to buyout his contract. The latter seems to be the likely option for the Pistons given the ballooned contract worth 36.8 million this season, and a player option for $38.9 million in 2021-22.

While there might not be many suitors for him in the trade market, but if he becomes a free agent, a host of teams will be interested to take in the 6-time All-Star.

Teams who might make a move for Blake Griffin

The 31-year-old might not be the athletic dunker he once was, but is still a decent enough forward in the NBA. Over the years, he has transformed his game and has developed his playmaking skills.

Although he does not dunk anymore, he creates his own shot around the paint. But his biggest weapon has arguably been his usage of the three pointer. From the 2017-18 season, Griffin has averaged over 5 attempts from the three point line.

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Although his efficiency is not mind boggling by any means, it is decent enough to be a problem for other problems. With such a versatile attacking prowess, some teams can use a man of Blake’s talents.

Cleveland Cavaliers are most likely to be a potential trade partner. The Cavs are seeing their superstar center Andre Drummond in a similar situation, wanting out of the team.

A straight up swap for Griffin might be the best deal for the Cavs. Griffin can be a solid offensive addition to their loaded front-court.

A Potential trade with the Sacramento, sing, Sacramento Kings, could be at works. Marvin Bagley III‘s frustration with the Kings is an open secret because of a pretty open trade saga in the initial part of the season.

Bringing in Blake Griffin might be the right move by the Kings. The team has struggled to take the next step over the years to get over the hump and qualify for the playoffs. Given his experience at the highest level, Griffin, alongside De’Aaron Fox, can lead the young Kings side to the first playoff appearance in 15 years.

Teams who might sign Griffin if the Pistons buyout his contract

One of the teams that could benefit from Griffin, is the Miami Heat the heat are the defending Eastern Conference champions and good to get the 31-year-old. For some underperforming veterans. A trade package comprising Meyers Leonard, Andre Iguodala, and a 2022. Second-round draft pick can be a good trade package to land Griffin.

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The six time. All Star won’t be adding numbers like 25 points per night. But still, will be solid and contribute much more offensively than the likes of Leonard and Iguodala.

USA Today via Reuters

Apart from these two teams, the Dallas Mavericks might want to sign the 6’9 forward. The Mavs have been lacking a good volume shooter in their team since the departure of Seth Curry from the side.

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The addition of Griffin might be a big boost for them. He might not be as lethal as Seth Curry, but brings in a much more diverse attacking arsenal to the side. He can be a great offensive addition to an already explosive attack of Luka Doncic, Kristaps Porzingis, and Tim Hardaway Jr.

Blake Griffin still has a lot in his tank, he can be a good addition for teams who might be in for a deep playoff run.

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Written by:

Aditya Mohapatra

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Aditya Mohapatra is a sports enthusiast who primarily covers the NBA for EssentiallySports. Having graduated in Mass Communication, he has prior experience in writing for ABP News, and has been writing for EssentiallySports since November 2020. This die-hard Los Angeles Lakers fan feels that LeBron James is the best thing to have ever happened to the NBA, and will hold a healthy debate with anyone suggesting otherwise.
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