Blake Griffin might not be the same explosive leaper he once was. But as Griffin prepares for his Brooklyn Nets debut, he is promising Nets fans he is still capable of bringing the thunder.

The six-time All-Star said during an interview with ESPN's Malika Andrews–which will air later Monday night ahead of Nets-Knicks–he hopes to throw down some vintage jams, adding “I promise you I still can” when asked about his dunking.

https://twitter.com/malika_andrews/status/1371555599004151812

The clip also includes a brief statement from Griffin regarding his expected role. Griffin said he anticipates being a guy who will “fill the gaps” and be able to facilitate for Brooklyn.

Indeed, Nets fans should probably expect more in the playmaking department, and less from a dunking standpoint.

There is no question Griffin is still a tremendous athlete. But his body has also dealt with a good deal of wear and tear through the years. He is not the same “Lob City” guy who set the league on fire with highlight-reel slams.

Instead, Griffin should bring a lot of vision and passing to the Nets. He is averaging 4.4 assists for his career, and averaged 5.4 dimes in his last full season with the Detroit Pistons. Griffin's ability to handle the ball and start fast breaks should be beneficial to a Nets team that has already been incredibly difficult to guard.

It will take Griffin and his teammates time to get acclimated to one another. But the former No. 1 overall pick could eventually be a big piece to Brooklyn's championship puzzle, perhaps throwing down a big slam every now and then.