In an unexpected move, the Houston Rockets have decided to waive A.J. Griffin through a contract buyout worth $250,000. Griffin, who was drafted 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, now finds himself at a career crossroads at the tender age of 21.
Griffin's journey to this point has been anything but straightforward. After an impressive single season at Duke, he entered the NBA with high expectations. During his rookie year, Griffin showcased his potential, averaging nine points per game, shooting 39% from beyond the arc, and logging 20 minutes of play per game. He managed to hit a career-high of 24 points twice and started in 12 games, underlining his promise on the court.
Trade and Struggles
The promising start to Griffin's NBA career took an unexpected turn when he was traded to the Houston Rockets. The trade involved sending the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic, to the Hawks. Unfortunately, Griffin struggled to find his groove with the Rockets, and his performance at the Las Vegas Summer League last July further highlighted these difficulties.
Griffin's challenges in Houston have now culminated in the team deciding to waive him. This decision wasn't taken lightly and came as Griffin himself was contemplating his future in basketball. According to sources, Griffin is planning to "sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career." The Rockets appear to support this step back, likely influenced by Griffin's recent struggles and the potential benefits of taking a break.
A Pause for Reflection
Given his young age and the pressures associated with professional sports, stepping away from basketball might offer Griffin the opportunity to reassess his career and personal goals. Whether this hiatus turns out to be temporary or permanent remains uncertain.
Outside of his professional journey, Griffin's basketball lineage cannot be overlooked. He's the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and the current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. One can only speculate on how his father's experience and insights might influence his decisions during this reflective period.
Despite the current uncertainty, Griffin's talent is undeniable. From his college days at Duke to the potential glimpses he showed in his rookie season, there remains a sense of unfinished business. For the Houston Rockets, allowing Griffin to sit out the upcoming season may indeed prove beneficial, giving him the mental and physical space to rediscover his passion and form.
As fans and analysts keep a close eye on A.J. Griffin's next steps, the broader narrative in professional basketball remains compelling. Talented players facing crossroads is not unprecedented, but how they navigate this path often defines their legacy. Whether Griffin decides to return with renewed vigor or choose a different direction entirely, his story adds to the rich tapestry of the sport.