Brooklyn Nets star Blake Griffin has been in the league for some time now. He has been around the block quite a bit too, so you could say he's an authority on what goes on behind the scenes in the NBA.

On a recent appearance on Barstool Sports' Pardon My Take podcast, Griffin opened up about who he believes the most respected player in the game is today. His answer might come as a surprise to some folks, as he didn't reference LeBron James. As a matter of fact, Griffin thinks that this honor belongs to one of LeBron's former Miami Heat teammates in Udonis Haslem.

Blake Griffin may be a true vet, but his tenure pales in comparison to that of Udonis Haslem. The 6-foot-8 big man turned 41 last June, and he's set to embark on his 19th season with the Heat this coming season. Haslem is the vet of all vets, and the fact that he has exhibited unwavering loyalty to Miami throughout his career only makes his legend grow further.

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For his part, LeBron James is considered by many as one of the greatest players this game has ever seen. What he does off the court is equally impressive too, which is why he has gained more than a few fans along the way.

Nevertheless, even The King himself would probably agree with Blake Griffin that Haslem is the most esteemed player in the league right now.