Griffin taking it slow in return

[mkwest]

LAS VEGAS -- Blake Griffin is ready. One hundred percent, totally fit, champing at the bit to get back in a Los Angeles Clippers uniform and play a real game.

Griffin is also pretty mature for a 21-year-old.

So deciding whether to participate in next week's USA Basketball minicamp here in Las Vegas isn't as simple as being 100 percent and eager to get back on the court.

"I really don't know yet. I have to talk to everyone in the next few days and make sure we're all on the same page," said Griffin, the Clippers' No. 1 overall draft pick in 2009 who missed all of his rookie season because of a fractured kneecap.

"I've been working out hard all summer and I might not want to go from all summer working out to USA to playing to right into training camp. It's a matter of making sure I get enough rest. It's not a matter of reinjury."

"I haven't played a game for them yet so I understand their concern," he said. "The Clippers, that's my organization, I need to be loyal to them."

Ramona Shelburne, ESPN Los Angeles

[Roscoe Sheed]

I really like his attitude. He actually seems very proud to be a Clipper. The Clippers really need that out of their leader

[CLiPPzWeRD12]

I really like his attitude. He actually seems very proud to be a Clipper. The Clippers really need that out of their leader

Yeah, I think he REALLY wants to change things around here, and I really hope that he can!

[mike3]

True, Griffin attitude seems like one that could really change and improve his teamates attitudes.