Drummond, Griffin shelved as they hit trade market

Two former NBA All-Star big men in Andre Drummond and Blake Griffin could be on the move before the trade deadline on March 25.

Drummond wasn’t part of the Cavaliers’ future plans. He’s not part of current ones, either.

The two-time All-Star center will be inactive for upcoming games as the Cavs, who are struggling badly after a solid start, pursue a trade for him, a person familiar with the team’s intentions told The Associated Press.

Drummond sat out Sunday night’s game — the team called it “rest” — against the Los Angeles Clippers and will continue to stay on the sideline, said the person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the Cavs have not publicly commented on Drummond’s situation.

There is “nothing imminent” on the trade front, the person added.

ESPN.com was first to report Drummond’s status.

The Cavs moved center Jarrett Allen into Drummond’s starting spot on Sunday, and the team intends to build around the 22-year-old Allen, who was acquired along with forward Taurean Prince from Brooklyn in a trade last month.

As the Cavs lost their seventh straight game, Drummond sat on Cleveland’s bench wearing a sweatshirt that had “Farewell” written on the front. The Cavs would like to acquire future assets for Drummond, who is in the final year of a contract that will pay him $28.7 million this season.

The Detroit Pistons are also taking another step in their rebuilding process, planning to part ways with Blake Griffin.

Detroit plans to keep the star forward out of the lineup while he and the organization work out a decision on his future, a clear sign his days with the team could be numbered.

“After extensive conversation with Blake’s representatives, it has been determined that we will begin working to facilitate a resolution regarding his future with the team that maximizes the interests of both parties,” Pistons general manager Troy Weaver said in a statement.

“We respect all the effort Blake has put forth in Detroit and his career and will work to achieve a positive outcome for all involved.”

Griffin, who turns 32 next month, came to Detroit in a trade during the 2017-18 season as part of the franchise’s push to become relevant again.

The Pistons, though, have made only one postseason appearance with him and have spent much of the last year overhauling their roster in earnest. Detroit is 8-19 this season, and Griffin has already missed seven games.

“It’s a situation where we’re rebuilding and retooling and we have to give those minutes to guys like Saddiq (Bey),” coach Dwane Casey said.

If Griffin is traded or leaves via a buyout, it could give the popular veteran a chance to play more meaningful games than what Detroit can offer this season. (AP)