Blake Griffin, once a force to be reckoned with on the hardwood, now finds himself at a crossroads in his basketball journey. As the free agency market remains silent for the 34-year-old veteran, there’s a looming sense of frustration and missed opportunity surrounding a career that has been nothing short of impactful, underrated, and often misunderstood. Unless a Deal materializes soon, it looks like it could be the end of an underrated and frustrating career.
The Meteoric Rise of Blake Griffin
Griffin’s journey began with a flourish, as he showcased his immense talent during his college years. Choosing to refine his skills for another year at the University of Oklahoma, he emerged as a true star, leading his team to an Elite Eight appearance and earning the National Player of the Year title. The NBA beckoned, and Griffin delivered an unforgettable rookie season, showcasing his prowess with averages of 22.5 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. He was an immediate standout, but it was just the beginning.
The Franchise Changer for Los Angeles Clippers
Amidst the struggles of the Los Angeles Clippers, Griffin’s arrival heralded a new era. The Clippers, a team synonymous with mediocrity, suddenly became contenders. With Blake Griffin’s electrifying play and his undeniable influence, the franchise underwent a transformation.
The acquisition of Chris Paul and the questionable hiring of Doc Rivers followed, propelling the team into an unprecedented run of success. The Clippers became a destination, team players wanted to join. Griffin’s impact on the team’s culture was undeniable, but his influence extended beyond the court.
Blake Griffin Evolved as a Versatile Player
Griffin’s skill set was often overshadowed by his highlight-reel dunks, but beneath the surface was a multi-faceted player. Adept at playmaking and possessing great handles, Griffin proved himself more than just an “athlete”. He adapted his game as his athleticism waned, embracing new roles and responsibilities. In Detroit, he displayed his all-around ability, averaging 24.5 points and 5.4 assists, showcasing a versatility that defied conventional labels.
A Career Riddled with “What If”s
As we look back on Griffin’s career, there’s a sense of frustration that lingers. The Clippers had the potential to achieve even more but missed opportunities and questionable decisions held them back. The failure to fill a crucial small forward position and a series of personnel missteps prevented the team from reaching its full potential.
After signing a long-term contract with Clippers and calling himself “A Lifetime Clipper”, the team decides to throw him under the bus and trade him away soon. The “what if” scenarios leave us wondering if a different approach could have yielded a different outcome.
Clippers owner Steve Balmer was trying to give Blake Griffin a handshake … Blake wanted no part. pic.twitter.com/wgDHx3Hyvr
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) January 12, 2019
Blake Griffin’s Legacy is Shrouded in Uncertainty and Frustration
As Blake Griffin faces the possibility of an uncertain future, the frustration intensifies. Injuries, both inevitable and self-inflicted, have cast a shadow over his career. Despite his resilience and evolution, his body type and limitations have played a role in his career trajectory. The absence of a championship ring and an MVP title leaves his legacy incomplete, raising questions about his Hall of Fame candidacy.
As we reflect on Blake Griffin’s journey, there’s a sense of frustration at the potential underappreciation of his impact on the game. The highs and lows, the transformative moments, and the undeniable skill set deserve recognition that extends beyond statistics. While the free agency uncertainty looms large, the frustration lies not only in his current situation but in the broader narrative of his career. Blake Griffin, a player who defied expectations and redefined a franchise, deserves a legacy that reflects his true impact on the basketball landscape.
