The L.A. Clippers and Detroit Pistons came together on Monday for one of the bigger deals of this season. Detroit will receive All-Star power forward Blake Griffin, forward Brice Johnson, and center Willie Reed from the Clippers. In return, the Pistons will send Tobias Harris, Avery Bradley, Boban Marjanovic, as well as a first and second-round pick to the Clippers.

Griffin, now 28 years of age, has spent his entire career with the Clippers — the franchise that drafted him with their No. 1 overall pick in 2009. He quickly became a beloved member of their organization, and many fans of the team are saddened by his departure.

After taking a night to sleep it over, Griffin released a heartfelt statement with regards to the trade.

“Needed a night to digest and reflect on what happened,” Griffin wrote in his post. “From being a #1 pick, to Lob City, to six straight Playoff appearances, I am so proud to have been a part of the success of the Clippers organization. L.A. has been my home since I started in the league and I will be forever grateful to the city for embracing me and supporting me.

“To the fans, you have been awesome every step of the way,” Griffin continued. “Thank you for your years of support. Now I'm ready for the next chapter, getting to work and helping the Detroit Pistons make a run in the Eastern Conference.”

Without a doubt, Griffin played an integral role for the Clippers. In his 33 games played this season, the former Oklahoma Sooner has turned in averages of 22.6 points on 44.1 percent shooting from the field (34.2 percent from beyond the arc), 7.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game.

With his must-watch style of play, the Griffin is also expected to bring life to Pistons home games at their new arena that has apparently left more to be desired in terms of attendance.