Griffin calls desire to finish career as a Clipper a 'no-brainer'
Addressing the media after officially re-signing with the Los Angeles Clippers, forward Blake Griffin touched on a variety of pertinent topics, including his commitment to the team, the franchise's future without Chris Paul, and his recovery from last season's foot injury.
"This was a no-brainer for me. This is a place where I want to start and finish my career," Griffin told reporters. "This next chapter, this next season, for the Clippers and for myself, I've never been more excited about an opportunity."
With Paul - a longtime staple in L.A.'s backcourt - joining the Houston Rockets, Griffin expects some major changes in how the team approaches the new season.
"I do expect my role to change a little bit, but at the same time, we have plenty of help," explained the 28-year-old. "The size and speed of this team is exciting. I think playing in transition, getting out, keeping the ball moving, playing free is something we're looking forward to."
In expected form, Griffin dismissed the notion that the Clippers are now "his team" with Paul out of the picture.
"That's never really been a concern of mine," said the former first overall pick. "My biggest concern was being prepared every summer."
Team business aside, the Oklahoma product also gave an update regarding his lingering foot issue, declaring that he expects to be ready for training camp.
"I've met with probably five different foot specialists before surgery, and everybody's conclusion was that training camp was a very realistic possibility," stated Griffin.