As it is looking increasingly clear that Blake Griffin will be leaving the Los Angeles Clippers, a host of NBA teams have begun to explore the possibility of bringing the five-time All Star to their franchise. On the back of an injury-plagued season in which Griffin spent much of the campaign on the sidelines, the former number-one draft pick has appeared a forlorn figure at the Staples Center, and a move could well be the best for both the player and the franchise – especially considering he will be a free agent in 2017.
Ever since being selected number one overall in 2009, Griffin has gone on to establish himself as one of the biggest names in basketball. Last year’s issues might have robbed the Clippers of one of their main players, but it hasn’t done anything to dent the 27-year old’s reputation. The Toronto Raptors and the Miami Heat are just two franchises that have shown interest in Griffin this summer, although the Oklahoma City Thunder are another that may attract one of the best power forwards in the game.
So let’s take a look at the potential moves Griffin could make should he leave Los Angeles this year.
Toronto Raptors
The Raptors proved beyond doubt that they are now a team genuinely capable of winning an NBA Championship. Having pushed the eventual champions all the way in the Conference Finals, losing 2-4 to the Cleveland Cavaliers, DeMar DeRozan’s and his team answered those critics who said the Raptors didn’t have what it takes to handle the playoffs. Last season’s performance from the Raptors has certainly played a part in the franchise being given odds of 33/1 to win the NBA Finals next season with 32Red Canada and 888Sport, although that price could drop significantly if Toronto start the season with Blake Griffin on their roster. Adding a player such as Griffin to a talented but young roster could be just what the Raptors need to really become contenders.
Miami Heat
The Miami Heat have endured a tough couple of seasons and it’s obvious the franchise is looking to ensure they remind the NBA they are still very much a force. While it’s looking as though Miami’s main focus at the moment is trying to tempt Stephen Curry to swap the Golden State Warriors for the golden beaches of south Florida, the Heat are also in the market for a big-name power forward – and there aren’t many bigger names than Griffin. Miami president Pat Riley proved he should never be doubted when he convinced LeBron James to leave Cleveland for the Heat, and Griffin may be interested in the prospect of playing a major part of this project.
Oklahoma City Thunder
There are a number of factors going in the Thunder’s way when it comes to trying to sign Griffin. As well as the obvious strength of the roster at the Thunderdome, a move to Oklahoma would be a move home for the in-demand power forward. Having been brought up in the city, Griffin went on to shine at Oklahoma Christian High School before securing legendary status during his college career with the Sooners, as shown in the video below. After a tough couple of years in California, the thought of returning home and playing in front of his childhood friends and family could well be the most attractive option for Griffin at this stage of his career. The Thunder, who will start the season with odds of around 28/1 with 32Red and other sportsbooks, will certainly be interested in exploring the option.
Or, stay where he is
Griffin could, of course, choose to extend his deal with the Clippers. While the franchise is believed to be interested in the potential of using the salary cap space Griffin currently occupies in order to strengthen their roster in a number of areas, they will be well aware that it would be a tough job to try and replace their influential big man. Sure, last season wasn’t one in which the Clippers got value for money from their star forward, Griffin still managed to record over 20 points a game when fit, continuing to prove himself as one of the best forwards in the league. Still yet to show their hand regarding Griffin, don’t be surprised to see the Clippers attempt to extend the stay of the man they snapped up in 2009 rather than try and trade him.
