Pistons, Clippers agree to deal to send Blake Griffin to Detroit

The Detroit Pistons has acquired five-time NBA All-Star Blake Griffin, center Willie Reed and forward Brice Johnson from the Los Angeles Clippers.

The deal is in exchange for guard Avery Bradley, forward Tobias Harris, center Boban Marjanovic, a future protected first-round draft choice and a future second round draft choice.

Early Tuesday, the Pistons organization confirmed the trade. “We are serious about winning, and this is a major move to improve our team,” said Pistons owner Tom Gores.  “Blake Griffin is one of the NBA’s elite players, and when you get an opportunity to add that kind of talent, you take it.  The move is not without risk.  We gave up a lot to get him, including Tobias Harris - one of the hardest working, highest-character players I know - and two high quality young men in Avery Bradley and Boban Marjanovic.  But we are very excited to bring Blake Griffin to Detroit.  He is a great fit for our team and will bring a combination of toughness and athleticism that will elevate our team and excite our fans.”

“We’re pleased to welcome Blake Griffin, Willie Reed and Brice Johnson to the Detroit Pistons,” said President and Head Coach Stan Van Gundy.  “Blake has been an All-NBA performer, he’s a five-time all-star and a player that commands attention whenever he’s on the floor.  His presence will help us offensively and his size gives us another rebounder and weapon in the paint.  Willie Reed and Brice Johnson are two young players that give us size and depth.  On the flip side, I thank Avery Bradley, Tobias Harris and Boban Marjanovic for their efforts and wish them the best moving forward.”

The likely starting lineup, when healthy, could look like: Reggie Jackson, Luke Kennard, Stanley Johnson, Blake Griffin, Andre Drummond.

Griffin is averaging 22 points and 8 rebounds per game this year with the Clippers. He resigned with the Clippers last year on a a five-year, $173 million contract in July.