The Houston Rockets have made a significant roster decision by opting to waive A.J. Griffin through a contract buyout worth $250,000. This move comes amid Griffin's contemplation about his future in basketball, leading some to speculate whether his hiatus from the sport will be temporary or permanent.
Griffin, who is just 21 years old, had a promising start to his career, having been selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks. Griffin, who played a single season at Duke, entered the NBA with high expectations. During his rookie year, he showcased potential by averaging nine points per game on 39% 3-point shooting in an average of 20 minutes per game. Griffin even managed to register a career-best 24 points in two games and started in 12 games during his rookie season.
A Rough Transition to the Rockets
Despite his solid performance with the Hawks, Griffin's journey with the Houston Rockets was less successful. The trade, which included sending the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic, to the Hawks, seemed promising initially. However, Griffin struggled to find his rhythm with the Rockets, particularly during the Las Vegas Summer League held last July. These struggles might have played a role in the Rockets' decision to permit Griffin to take a break from the sport.
Griffin is planning to "sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career," according to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle. The team's decision to support this hiatus reflects a recognition of his recent struggles and the potential benefits of stepping away temporarily for a period of reflection and recuperation.
Family Legacy and Future Uncertainty
It's worth noting that Griffin is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and the current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. This connection adds another layer of complexity to his decision to step away from basketball. Being part of a family deeply embedded in the sport may contribute to the pressure Griffin feels at this pivotal moment in his career.
The decision to waive Griffin has undoubtedly sent ripples through the NBA community. At this stage, it's uncertain whether Griffin's hiatus will be temporary or if he might decide to step away from the sport permanently. His journey thus far has been marked by both highs and lows, and this break may provide him the needed time to evaluate his career prospects thoroughly.
As fans and analysts continue to speculate about Griffin's next move, the 21-year-old's performance during his rookie season remains a testament to his potential. Should he decide to return to the court, there’s no doubt that many will be watching closely to see if he can recapture the form that made him a promising young talent in the NBA.
For now, the basketball world will have to wait and see what the future holds for A.J. Griffin. His decision will not only impact his career trajectory but could also influence future decisions for athletes in similar positions, highlighting the importance of mental and physical well-being in professional sports.