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The Latest on Blake Griffin's Future with Celtics
The Celtics signed sharpshooter Svi Mykhailiuk last week, a move placing them in compliance with the requirement of having a minimum of 14 full-time players on their roster.
Boston has one more opening matching that description, plus an available two-way spot. The franchise is $2.2 million below the second apron, per Spotrac.
As previously examined, the best option for the Celtics, should they choose to fill their last remaining roster vacancy, is a reunion with Blake Griffin.
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While the door remains open for his return, according to Adam Himmelsbach of the Boston Globe, "for now that appears unlikely as Griffin considers his future."
That may be a product of the six-time All-Star assessing options like reported interest from the Warriors, rejoining the franchise that drafted him first overall in 2009, the Clippers, and the Sixers.
He also may have less consistent opportunities with the Celtics than last season when he could enter the starting lineup in Al Horford's absence on the second night of back-to-backs. Kristaps Porzingis and Robert Williams will handle that responsibility now when both are available.
As for what happens when that's not the case, here's a look at how Boston's starting five could shape-shift depending on what Joe Mazzulla's club is dealing with, including its opponent.
Griffin would also have to contend with Luke Kornet for playing time. So, after averaging 13.9 minutes and appearing in 41 games in 2022-23, knowing staying is likely to come with fewer opportunities to get on the court, he may prefer to go elsewhere.
The 34-year-old may also opt to retire. As a five-time All-NBA member, there's a strong possibility he'll be inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame one day.
The former Oklahoma Sooner has also found success off the court, including in stand-up comedy, which will help with his transition if he decides last season was the final chapter of his playing career.
Further Reading
Tyrese Haliburton Explains Why He Has Celtics Matchup Circled
Celtics Sign Sharpshooter Svi Mykhailiuk
Brad Stevens Discusses Differences in Joe Mazzulla Entering Year 2 as Celtics' Head Coach
Brad Stevens Discusses Kristaps Porzingis' Role with Celtics, Provides Rehab Update
Kristaps Porzingis Speaks on Recovery from Foot Injury: 'I Couldn't Get Rid of the Inflammation'
Here's What to Know About Celtics' 2023-24 Schedule
Examining How Celtics' Starting Lineup Might Shapeshift This Season
Why Celtics Should Enter 2023-24 Season Optimistic About Most Important Area of Improvement
