The Golden State Warriors are entering this offseason looking for some help to place alongside Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. After a horrible 2019-20 NBA season that both Curry and Thompson missed the majority of, the Warriors are looking to get back into title contention. Detroit Pistons star Blake Griffin could be an intriguing target for the Warriors.
One of the main needs for the Warriors this offseason will be finding some help in the front-court. Many believe that they should simply take James Wiseman with the No. 2 overall pick, but going with a current star like Griffin to win now would make a lot of sense as well.
ESPN certainly thinks the Warriors could take a look at acquiring Griffin from the Pistons. In fact, they mapped out a trade that would send the star forward to Golden State.
Here is the deal that they put together between the Warriors and Pistons.
Warriors receive Blake Griffin, No. 7 overall pick from the Pistons in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Kevon Looney, and the No. 2 overall pick.
Griffin would certainly be an intriguing fit for the Warriors. He is not a great shooter, but he can score in the paint, handle the ball, and create for his teammates. That skill-set could fit nicely alongside Curry and Thompson.
During the 2019-20 NBA season with the Pistons, Griffin struggled with injury issues and was only able to play in 18 games. He averaged 15.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. Back in 2018-19, however, Griffin averaged 24.5 points per game to go along with 7.5 rebounds and 5.4 assists.
Even though he is past his superstar prime, the Warriors would improve a lot by acquiring him. When healthy, Griffin is still a top-notch power forward.
Golden State will be back in contention next season simply with the return of Curry and Thompson. Adding Griffin to the mix could make them a much tougher team when going up against the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets, and Dallas Mavericks.
As for the Pistons, this deal would make a lot of sense for them as well. Wiggins, Looney, and the No. 2 pick would give them some young pieces to build around. Moving on from Blake Griffin, who doesn’t fit their long-term plans, would be wise.
This trade may never be talked about, but it would be a good move for both parties involved. If the Warriors want to make an impact move in the front-court, this would be one way to do it.
