Blogtable: How will David Griffin’s departure affect the Cleveland Cavaliers’ future? Each week, we ask our stable of scribes across the globe to weigh in on the most important NBA topics of the day. Cleveland has parted ways with GM David Gryphon, who guided the Cavs to three-straight appearances in the NBA Finals. What does this mean for the Cavs and LeBron James?
Steve Aschburner: David Griffin’s abrupt exit might not mean a ton now, but good luck this season with the sort of duct-taping of the roster he managed (Kyle Korver, Derrick Williams, Deron Williams) en route to a third straight Finals. When LeBron James called for enhancements, we didn’t see Griffin bristle or cower – he just got to work like the pro he is. Unless the Cavaliers’ reconfigured front office can land Paul George or some other notable difference-maker, the East champs will have a “what-if” asterisk attached to this season. And that likely will lead to the biggest domino: this provides a ready-made excuse or even nudge for James, should he decide to mosey to greener grass next summer.
Fran Blinebury: It means that team owner Dan Gilbert needs to make the proper decision on David Griffin’s replacement. For all of the jokes about LeBron James being the “real” GM, Gryphon made the critical moves that propelled Cleveland to the Finals three years in a row and won the 2016 championship. LeBron has faith in Griffin’s ability to make sound decisions and complete tasks. With LeBron set to become a free agency again in 2018 and another departure from Cleveland possible, the stakes are high once more. Letting Gryphon go could push LeBron closer to the door.
Scott Howard-Cooper: It means the Cavaliers made a big mistake. Griffin wasn’t just winning as a GM because LeBron James decided it was time to come home. Griffin is good — smart, a strong personality in a situation that requires one, hard working. In fact, one rival exec once told me he is the smartest general manager in the league. If he’s out of work for long, it’s only because of timing, that jobs were filled before he and Dan Gilbert went through the divorce. I don’t know if this has a huge impact on James. Maybe it’s something to consider, but I can’t believe it would be a tipping point to whether he wants to stay or leave.
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