Former human-highlight reel Blake Griffin will be riding the pine until the Detroit Pistons figure out what they want to do with the one-time All-Star.
Pistons’ general manager Troy Weaver told ESPN that Griffin and the team agreed he would stay out of the lineup until they determine a trade option or contract buyout for the 31-year-old who will earn $36.6 million this season and $39 million next season.
“After extensive conversation with Blake’s representatives, it has been determined that we will begin working to facilitate a resolution regarding his future with the team that maximizes the interests of both parties. We respect all the effort Blake has put forth in Detroit and his career and will work to achieve a positive outcome for all involved,” Weaver said.
Detroit hopes to find a deal for the six-time All-Star before the March 25 deadline.
Griffin, in his eleventh year in the league, wants to play for a title contender.
The 6-foot-nine forward is more than ten points below his career-best of the 2018-19 season, averaging 12.3 points along with 5.2 rebounds and 3.9 assists.
“I am grateful to the Pistons for understanding what I want to accomplish in my career and for working together on the best path forward,” Griffin told ESPN in a statement.
The Pistons are now in full rebuild mode, which doesn’t lend much room for the former member of Lob City to operate.
Though injuries have plagued the power forward throughout his career, he could still be a valuable asset in the playoffs.
One possible landing spot could be Portland.
Trail Blazers’ President of Basketball Operations Neil Olshey was the Clippers’ Assistant General Manager when the team drafted Griffin in 2009.
And speaking of the Clippers, Los Angeles could also be an attractive destination, but Griffin and owner Steve Ballmer would need to mend some fences.