Celtics players Derrick White and Payton Pritchard revealed on Barstool Sports’ “Pardon My Take” podcast that the team has been actively urging free-agent big man Blake Griffin to make a return. Griffin, a six-time All-Star and former Rookie of the Year, played 41 regular-season games for the Celtics last season, posting career lows in points (4.1), rebounds (3.8), assists (1.5), and minutes per game (13.9). Despite limited playoff appearances, Pritchard and White spoke highly of Griffin, emphasizing the team’s collective desire for his comeback.
Pritchard mentioned, “We’ve begged him to. We’ve been begging him,” expressing the team’s eagerness to have Griffin back in Boston. White echoed this sentiment, stating that the entire team has been encouraging Griffin to return. However, with the Celtics boasting a deep roster featuring players like Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, Luke Kornet, and Neemias Queta in the frontcourt, finding a spot for Griffin might be challenging.
Currently, Porzingis and Horford log significant minutes, with Kornet and Queta contributing on the floor as well. Despite the roster depth, Pritchard remains committed to recruiting Griffin for a potential return, even jokingly texting him about it recently. While Jayson Tatum often plays at the four spot, Pritchard continues to engage with Griffin, maintaining regular communication with the veteran.
Although there were reports in October suggesting Griffin was contemplating retirement, he confirmed during the podcast that he and Pritchard stay in frequent contact. Griffin emphasized that he is currently enjoying life, leaving his future in the NBA uncertain.
