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After signing with the Celtics during training camp, Blake Griffin made an impact on the court and even more so on the work environment.
Whether it was practice, a game, or even riding to an arena with what became known as the 'bus one boys,' the six-time All-Star helped make it fun to go to (literally) and be at work.
Yes, basketball is a kid's game, and those who play professionally are lucky the combination of their God-given abilities, hard work, and sacrifice allows them to do so for a living and enjoy the trappings that come with that lifestyle.
However, it can also be stressful, especially when carrying the weight of championship expectations. And it is exhausting to regularly play every other day, frequently traveling from one city to the next. It's a grind that takes a physical and mental toll.
Having a five-time All-NBA member who has the respect of the locker room, can act as another coach of sorts, and is someone people enjoy being around is probably as good as Boston can do as it aims to fill out its roster.
The Celtics must fill at least one of their two openings for a full-time roster spot. They are $4.2 million below the second apron, per Spotrac, and it would be shocking if they cross that threshold to sign any of the remaining free agents.
And while they've recently worked out a trio of forwards, a former Slam Dunk Contest winner, and intriguing options are still available on the open market, the door remains open for Griffin's return to Boston.
In an appearance on Jones & Mego to support WEEI's Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon, Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens expressed, "Blake was as good as it gets on and off the court."
While Griffin contemplates his options, including a second stint in Boston, the Warriors, Clippers, and Sixers are also interested in his services, per Sam Amico of HoopsWire.
The former first-overall draft pick spoke highly of his experience last season, conveying in a recent appearance on Barstool Sports' Fore Play Podcast, "Dude, Boston is unbelievable," adding, "Living in Boston, playing in Boston, was like one of the best experiences. Dude, the fans are incredible."
Griffin also stated, "One of the best parts (is) the players on that team are just like such a great group of guys."
The 34-year-old averaged 4.1 points and 3.8 rebounds in 41 appearances last season, including 16 starts, and logged 13.9 minutes per game.
More must-reads:
- Pacers' Pascal Siakam leads team to Game 6 win vs. Knicks
- Don't let the media fool you, this Celtics team is battle-tested
- The 'Most triple-doubles in the postseason' quiz
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