Pelicans' David Griffin explains how history with Danny Ainge could impact trade talks

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Pelicans' David Griffin explains how history with Danny Ainge could impact trade talks




By Darren Hartwell
April 24, 2019 10:10 AM




Want another fascinating subplot for the Boston Celtics' pursuit of Anthony Davis?

The man in charge of trading him used to work for Danny Ainge.

New Orleans Pelicans general manager David Griffin got his NBA start as a video intern for the Suns when Ainge was the head coach in Phoenix. The two have maintained a good relationship ever since, with Griffin actually crediting the current Celtics president of basketbll operations for helping him rise through the NBA ranks.

So, does that mean Ainge -- who has a history of fleecing fellow general managers with shrewd trades -- has the inside track of striking a Davis deal with his old pal?

Griffin candidly discussed the tricky situation Tuesday on ESPN's "The Jump."

"I think to some degree you’re mindful of what his tact is, right? You’re very mindful if you’re doing this, right?" Griffin said. "You’re very aware of what everyone’s tact is and the negotiating tactics and ploys that somebody might utilize -- you’re gonna be aware of that.

"Danny’s not unique in that way, that he’s got a very specific style. What makes the situation with Danny unique is, we have the kind of relationship where we can really call each other on all that nonsense, and just sort of (say), ‘This is what it looks like.’ I think because we have that ability it makes any conversation we would have along the way a fruitful one."


Griffin actually said earlier this month he'll try to keep Davis in New Orleans, but the expectation is the Pelicans will try to move the 26-year-old this offseason, with the Celtics among their top suitors.

That means Ainge should be making at least one call this summer to Griffin, who added this great line about his former boss"

"He called me 'Freak.' He still calls me 'Freak.' We make fun of each other rather often."

If you believe Griffin, though, it'd be all business between the two on the topic of a Davis trade.




bob
MY NOTE: All business...so was the deal between Kevin McHale and Danny for KG and the deal for IT from Ryan McDonough in Phoenix. Worked out well for Danny both times though, didn't it?


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I wish we could get through the post season without all these cute little articles.