Blake Griffin has suddenly become a victim of late-July trade rumors. According to some reports, the Boston Celtics had preliminary discussions about trading for the star. Having signed Al Horford this summer, Boston is clearly looking to add established talent in an effort to win now.
However, in a new report published by Steve Bulpett of the Boston Herald, it becomes evident that there is some caution being placed around Griffin:
But, according to one opposing team exec, there is another question with Griffin.
“I still think there’s a concern with his leg,” he said, referring to a partially torn left quad tendon that cost Griffin serious time last season and never fully healed before causing him to miss the end of the playoffs. He reportedly received a bone marrow injection following the season, which is keeping him off the U.S. Olympic team.
“We looked into him, and we’re hearing that’s a pretty serious thing,” the source continued. “I’m not saying you don’t go after him, but you’d better be really sure about that leg before you go making any big commitments.”
Obviously, this is an interesting situation to monitor. Griffin struggled with a leg injury for most of last season, eventually being unable to help his team in the playoffs. Beyond that, we do not know of the seriousness of the injury.
In looking at this from a nuanced perspective, it’s important to consider the source. There is a very real possibility that this “concern” from a league GM is just a leak from the Celtics. In claiming that teams around the NBA are worried about Griffin’s health, the Celtics (or whichever other team) could simply be looking to lower the asking price.
Boston is potentially in trade talks with both OKC and the Clippers for stars. However, with the Warriors looking like the biggest super-team we’ve ever seen and the Cavaliers looking as strong as ever, mortgaging the future for a ceiling as an Eastern Conference Finals team is a scary thought.
In order to trade for a Blake Griffin, the Celtics would have to give up a bevy of the draft picks that they’ve acquired over the years. Danny Ainge may not be willing to do that, but if the asking price surprisingly lowers, then he may pull the trigger.
