Blake Griffin Finds A Home For 2022-23
Free agent Blake Griffin has agreed to a one-year, fully guaranteed deal with the Boston Celtics, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 30, 2022
It's a fully-guaranteed contract, as per NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski, and is said to be a veteran's minimum deal ($2.9M).
The Celtics were desperate for some front-court help after losing both Danilo Gallinari and Robert Williams to injuries. Gallo is out for the year, Williams likely until Christmas. And when it came time to decide on the bigger need—filling some of the shot-making of Gallo or some of the defense at the center spot of Williams, Brad Stevens decided to go with the latter.
My guess is Boston went with Blake Griffin over Carmelo Anthony because Griffin has shown he can defend at the five.
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) September 30, 2022
Melo would have been more of a Gallo replacement, but Griffin fills a bigger hole on the roster as currently constructed.
The Celtics attended Griffin's recent workouts in Los Angeles, and saw enough to bring him on board.
He may not be the high-flying lob-city Griffin of old anymore, but he can be a big body on defense. He is now yet another Celtic who is expert at taking charges.
NBA Charge Leaders in 2021-22:
— Dan Greenberg (@StoolGreenie) September 30, 2022
#1 Blake Griffin - 26
#3 Derrick White - 25
#11 Marcus Smart - 16
I see you Brad
In 56 games for the Nets last season, Griffin had career lows across the board, in points (6.4), rebounds (4.1) and assists (1.9). He also shot just 26.2% from beyond the arc.
Photo: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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