The Detroit Pistons and Blake Griffin have agreed that he will be out of the lineup until the franchise and his representatives work through a resolution on his playing future, according to Adrian Wojnarowski.
The Pistons will pursue trade scenarios for the six-time All-Star and talks on a contract buyout could also come into play with Griffin’s agent Sam Goldfeder of Excel Sports.
With the Pistons looking to develop their younger players as they enter rebuilding mode, Griffin would prefer to play for a contending team.
“After extensive conversation with Blake’s representatives, it has been determined that we will begin working to facilitate a resolution regarding his future with the team that maximizes the interests of both parties,” general manager Troy Weaver told ESPN. “We respect all the effort Blake has put forth in Detroit and his career and will work to achieve a positive outcome for all involved.”
Griffin also thanked the Pistons in a statement.
“I am grateful to the Pistons for understanding what I want to accomplish in my career and for working together on the best path forward,” he said.
Griffin, 31, is owed $36.6 million this season, and $39 million in 2021-2022, so finding a trade partner could potentially be a challenge.
The Pistons also recently dealt veteran Derrick Rose to the New York Knicks in exchange for Dennis Smith Jr.
