The Houston Rockets have made a significant roster move as they decided to waive A.J. Griffin through a contract buyout worth $250,000. This unexpected development follows a challenging season for the 21-year-old, who now finds himself stepping away from basketball, at least temporarily.
Early Promise and Initial Struggles
Griffin’s journey in the NBA began with much promise. Selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, he entered the league with high expectations. Griffin's lone season at Duke had showcased his potential, and his transition to professional basketball started on a positive note. In his rookie season, he managed to impress despite limited opportunities, averaging nine points per game with a commendable 39% shooting from beyond the arc over 20 minutes of play per game.
Notably, Griffin achieved a career-best 24 points in two games and earned the starting spot in 12 games throughout his rookie campaign. His performance hinted at a bright future, although inconsistencies and fluctuations in form were noticeable.
A Tough Move to Houston
However, Griffin's career took an unexpected turn when he was traded to the Houston Rockets. The transaction, which involved sending the No. 43 overall pick Nikola Durisic to the Hawks, marked the beginning of a challenging period for Griffin. His struggles became particularly evident during the Las Vegas Summer League in July, where he struggled to find his footing and rhythm on the court.
This phase of struggle raised questions about his role with the Rockets and his future potential within the team. Griffin's performance during this period was far from the player who once dropped 24 points in a game. The transition to Houston proved more difficult than anticipated, leading to the Rockets' eventual decision to waive him.
Family Legacy Weighs In
Adding to Griffin’s narrative is his lineage; he is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and the current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. The young Griffin now finds himself at a crossroads, contemplating his future in the sport that has been a significant part of his family’s legacy.
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.” The Rockets’ decision to grant him this time off appears to be influenced by his recent struggles and the potential benefits of taking a break. This hiatus could serve as a valuable period of reflection and recovery for Griffin as he weighs his future options.
Uncertain Future
The prospect of Griffin stepping away from basketball at such a young age leaves the door open to various possibilities. Whether this break will be temporary or mark a permanent departure from the sport remains to be seen. Given his youth and the flashes of talent he has displayed, a successful comeback is far from out of the question. On the other hand, the psychological and physical toll of professional sports can’t be underestimated, and a longer hiatus might be necessary for his well-being.
The Houston Rockets, by allowing Griffin this time away, have shown a level of consideration that speaks to the complexity of professional athlete management. It also reflects a growing awareness within sports organizations about the individual needs of their players beyond just the immediate returns on the court. Griffin's decision to pause and the Rockets' support in this decision could set a precedent for how young athletes approach career uncertainties in high-pressure environments.
As Griffin steps away, the sports community watches closely. Whether he returns to the NBA or chooses a different path, his story will undoubtedly serve as an interesting case study in the challenges and pressures faced by young athletes in professional sports.