Even when basketball stars say they are loyal to a team, there are always cases when they get moved, either due to a change of decision like with Kevin Durant, or the team's management decided to do so like with Blake Griffin recently.
"Blake Griffin had a tremendous impact on this organization and his legacy within the community of Los Angeles will be permanent," says Clippers owner Steve Ballmer during a news release, as per ESPN. "It was a pleasure getting to know and cheer for Blake. I wish him, as well as Brice and Wille, the best of luck."
The talks of the trade had apparently started since a week ago. For the most part of the negotiations, they were becoming sure of it when Monday came, hence the Monday night shocking announcement. Apparently, the Clippers just could not get what they wanted from Griffin, although fans say otherwise.
The big move was explained by the team's management as their way of now focusing on a rebuilding. Trading off Griffin is the first step to acquiring younger players while still being able to compete for a playoff spot, which many fans doubt this season. That said, it is not quite hard to believe the rumors about the team trading off Lou Williams and DeAndre Jordan in the near future.
Griffin has had a strong start with his first few years in his career, winning NBA Slam Dunk Contest, NBA Rookie of the Year, and being selected as an All-Star. Since then, he has been suffering numerous injuries that undoubtedly affected his career. There were multiple seasons where he missed multiple games.
The trade for Griffin required Tobias Harris, Avery Bradley, Boban Marjanovic, and both Detroit Pistons first and second-round draft pick. Alongside Griffin is Brice Johnson and Willie Reed.
