The Houston Rockets have made a significant decision regarding their young guard, A.J. Griffin. The organization has opted to waive the 21-year-old following a contract buyout worth $250,000. This move comes as Griffin contemplates his future in basketball, leaving both fans and analysts speculating about whether his hiatus from the sport will be temporary or permanent.
A Promising Start
Griffin's journey in professional basketball began with high expectations. Selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, Griffin showcased his potential during his rookie season. The former Duke player, who played a single season at the prestigious institution, managed to average nine points per game while shooting an impressive 39% from beyond the arc in 20 minutes of play. He also had notable performances, scoring a career-best 24 points twice and starting in 12 games during his rookie campaign.
The Trade to Houston
Despite his promising start, Griffin's career took a turn when he was traded to the Houston Rockets. As part of the deal, the Rockets sent the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic, to the Hawks. The transition to Houston, however, was challenging for the young player. Griffin struggled notably during the Las Vegas Summer League last July, which may have contributed to the Rockets' recent decision to waive him.
Family Ties and Future Uncertainty
A.J. Griffin's connection to the sport runs deep, being the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and the current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. Yet, despite his lineage and early promise, the younger Griffin's recent struggles have cast a shadow over his future in the league. 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."
Why the Rockets Waived Griffin
The Rockets’ decision to permit Griffin to take a break from professional basketball seems to be influenced by his recent performance issues and the potential benefits of a hiatus. The organization likely weighed Griffin's on-court struggles against the advantages of allowing him time to reassess his career and come back stronger, should he choose to return.
As the NBA landscape continually evolves, the story of A.J. Griffin serves as a reminder of the uncertainties that young players face. With a year away from the sport ahead of him, Griffin has the opportunity to reflect and decide his path forward, free from immediate pressures. The basketball community will undoubtedly watch closely, hoping to see the 21-year-old rediscover the form that once made him a promising prospect.