The Houston Rockets and A.J. Griffin have reached an agreement on a contract buyout, resulting in Griffin being waived by the team. The buyout, valued at $250,000, closes the chapter on Griffin's short stint with the Rockets, as he plans to step away from basketball at just 21 years old.
This turn of events marks a significant moment in Griffin's young career, with uncertainty surrounding whether his hiatus will be temporary or permanent. Selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, Griffin's potential was apparent early on. He spent a single season at Duke, showcasing his skills and earning a promising draft position.
Rookie Season Performance
In his rookie season, Griffin displayed glimpses of his talent by averaging nine points per game with an impressive 39% 3-point shooting in about 20 minutes of play. His ability to deliver peak performances was demonstrated when he scored a career-best 24 points twice during the season. Griffin also earned the starting spot in 12 games, underscoring the confidence his team had in his abilities.
However, mid-season adjustments saw Griffin being traded to the Houston Rockets. As part of the trade, the Atlanta Hawks received the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic, in exchange. This move was anticipated to provide Griffin with new opportunities, but his tenure with the Rockets was riddled with challenges. Particularly, Griffin struggled during the Las Vegas Summer League last July, raising concerns about his consistency and fit within the team.
Personal and Professional Impact
The decision to waive Griffin appears to be influenced by multiple factors, including his contemplation regarding his future in the sport. According to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle, Griffin is planning to "sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career." This period of reflection could offer Griffin the respite he needs to decide his path forward in basketball or beyond.
Adding a layer of narrative to Griffin's basketball journey is his lineage. He is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and the current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. This connection to basketball at its highest levels contributes to the intrigue surrounding A.J. Griffin's decisions and future endeavors.
Impact on the Rockets
Allowing Griffin to sit out the upcoming season suggests that the Rockets recognize the potential benefits of a break for the young player. Despite his early struggles, the team acknowledges Griffin's potential and the impact that mental and physical recovery could have on his long-term career. The Rockets’ decision illustrates a broader understanding of player development and well-being in an intensive sport like basketball.
For now, the sports world will watch closely as Griffin steps away from the spotlight. His career trajectory, marked by early promise, challenges, and a significant decision to pause, reflects the unpredictable and highly demanding nature of professional sports. Whether Griffin returns to the court or chooses a different path, his journey thus far serves as a poignant reminder of the pressures young athletes face and the critical importance of mental and physical health in their careers.