NBA Rumors: 5 Teams That Could Help Make Blake Griffin Relevant Once More

The NBA players who will be playing in new teams via the buyout route have begun emerging. Blake Griffin, who was forced to sit out games as the Detroit Pistons waited for trade pitches, is now free to join any team. The 31-year-old agreed to a buyout with the Pistons, something that is music to the ears of teams – particularly the ones who do not have financial flexibility.

Griffin has officially become a free agent, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported, citing unnamed sources. It was something most anticipated considering other NBA teams were not too keen on spending lavishly for the six-time All-Star.

And as one would expect, teams headed to the NBA playoffs are at the top of the list when it comes to signing the former NBA Rookie of the Year. The Los Angeles Lakers are unsurprisingly one of them, along with the Brooklyn Nets, Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks and the Golden State Warriors.

Here are some forecasts and the chances of seeing the former NBA Slam Dunk champion with these clubs.

Golden State Warriors

There is perhaps no other team that needs more help upfront than the Golden State Warriors. The Dubs are trying to get their campaign back on track and shoring up their frontline is a need.

While Griffin could ably fill up that need, the fast-paced style of play raises questions on how the former Rookie of the Year can keep up. His injuries are well-documented so head coach Steve Kerr could end up using him less if Griffin’s knees don’t hold up.

Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks need a bruiser to toughen up their frontline. Though they have Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis, adding someone like Griffin makes a lot of sense. He could ease some load off Giannis Antetokounmpo, although his durability remains a big question mark.

Miami Heat

A team oozing with youth, the Miami Heat could add another key piece and veteran presence to the frontcourt. Griffin could be a sensible veteran to sign to help out the likes of Bam Adebayo and Kelly Olynyk. He could add a new dimension with his perimeter shooting and barreling plays for head coach Erik Spoelstra.

Brooklyn Nets

The Nets are already loaded, but taking in someone who can bang bodies would be a welcome addition for head coach Steve Nash. It would be a reunion for Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, the former Los Angeles Clippers frontline relied on from 2009 to 2018.

Los Angeles Lakers

Lastly, there is no question the purple and gold could use some help at the cheapest cost right now. Anthony Davis is temporarily out, and LeBron James could use some help. It would be a short-term fix but would help the Lakers' chances if they are to make it back-to-back title wins.

At this stage, Griffin would do well to join a contender. He is likely to settle for minimum pay for now and explore more lucrative offers by the offseason.