In a surprising move, the Houston Rockets have decided to waive A.J. Griffin through a contract buyout worth $250,000. At just 21 years old, Griffin is poised to step away from basketball, leaving fans and analysts questioning whether his hiatus will be temporary or a permanent departure from the sport.
A Promising Start
A.J. Griffin's basketball journey began with high expectations. Selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, Griffin demonstrated immense potential during his single season at Duke. At Duke, his on-court performance caught the attention of scouts and fans alike, laying a strong foundation for his entry into the NBA.
As a rookie with the Hawks, Griffin showed glimpses of brilliance. He averaged nine points per game, boasting an impressive 39% shooting from beyond the arc in just 20 minutes of play per game. Griffin's skillset was further highlighted when he scored a career-best 24 points twice during his rookie campaign. Starting in 12 games, his contributions were solid, reinforcing his potential as a key player for the Hawks.
The Trade to Houston
The trajectory of Griffin's career took a turn when he was traded to the Houston Rockets. The trade saw the Rockets sending the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic, to the Hawks in exchange for Griffin. However, the transition to Houston came with its set of challenges for the young player.
Griffin's stint with the Rockets was marked by struggles, notably during the Las Vegas Summer League last July. Despite his earlier successes, the challenges faced in the Summer League became a focal point of his time with the Rockets, leading to a reassessment of his role and future in the sport.
Contemplating the Future
Griffin, the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and the current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, has basketball deeply embedded in his life. However, the recent challenges have prompted a period of introspection for the young player. According to sources, Griffin is planning to "sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career."
The decision to waive Griffin came as he was contemplating his future in the sport. The Rockets’ willingness to permit Griffin to sit out the upcoming season was likely influenced by his recent struggles and the potential benefits of taking a break. This period of rest might offer Griffin the mental and physical reset needed to determine his next steps.
Uncertain Times
As the basketball community watches closely, it remains uncertain whether Griffin's hiatus will be a brief pause or a more extended absence. The young player's decision will undoubtedly have implications not only for his career but also for the teams and fans that have supported him thus far.