Blake Griffin says he understands being benched in favor of LaMarcus Aldridge but did not expect to be jettisoned from the rotation entirely. 

“Being completely out of (the rotation) though? I didn’t necessarily see that coming,” Griffin said, per Kristian Winfield of the New York Daily News. “But that’s not my decision. As players it’s our job to do whatever coaches see best so at this point that’s what it is.”

Griffin has not played in the Nets' last three games despite being fully healthy. Aldridge took his place in the starting lineup, while James Johnson and Paul Millsap have been getting minutes off the bench. 

Griffin was in the midst of a miserable start to his season, averaging a career-low 5.5 points and 4.9 rebounds while shooting 31.8 percent from the floor and 16.1 percent from three-point range. 

"Well, I feel for him," Nets coach Steve Nash told reporters. "That's not easy. You know it's tough when you go through a rough stretch of play and the world kind of caves in on you a little bit. I've been there and understand it. We have to give other guys an opportunity at this point, but Blake's had a great attitude. I really admire him for being positive through this and keeping himself ready so if his opportunity comes back, he can have an impact."

Griffin signed a one-year, $2.6 million contract with the Nets this offseason after joining them midway through the 2020-21 campaign following a buyout from the Detroit Pistons. He provided stellar play for the Nets in a reduced role after signing last season but has not been able to find consistency with his jumper. Knee injuries have essentially robbed Griffin of the bounce that once made him a dunk contest champion.

The Pistons are still responsible for paying Griffin $29.8 million this season.