Rockets Waive A.J. Griffin After Struggles; Former First-Round Pick Contemplating Future
The Houston Rockets have made a significant roster move, deciding to waive A.J. Griffin through a contract buyout reportedly worth $250,000. This decision comes amid a period of uncertainty for the young player. At just 21 years old, Griffin appears poised to take a step away from basketball, leaving fans and analysts wondering if his hiatus will be temporary or a permanent exit from the sport.
Griffin entered the NBA with high expectations. Selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, he joined the professional ranks after a single season at Duke, where his performance showcased his potential. As a rookie in the NBA, Griffin averaged nine points per game, shooting an impressive 39% from beyond the arc in 20 minutes of play. His standout moments included scoring a career-best 24 points on two separate occasions during the season. Additionally, Griffin earned starting positions in 12 games, a testament to the confidence his coaches initially had in him.
However, Griffin's journey took an unexpected turn with his trade to the Houston Rockets. As part of the deal, the Hawks received the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic. While trades are a common part of the NBA’s ever-shifting landscape, this move did not pan out as hoped for Griffin. He struggled to find his footing with the Rockets, particularly during the Las Vegas Summer League last July, a key showcase for young and unproven talent.
A.J. Griffin's struggles on the court reflect a broader narrative of challenge and adaptation that many players face when transitioning between teams and systems. The high hopes that followed his draft selection were met with the harsh realities of professional sports, where success is never guaranteed.
Adding another layer to Griffin's intriguing story is his lineage. He is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and the current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite the benefits of having a former professional and accomplished coach as a father, the younger Griffin has faced his own set of trials. The burden of living up to a notable family name in a highly competitive environment is never an easy feat.
The decision to waive Griffin appears to be influenced heavily by his recent struggles. The Rockets, recognizing the potential benefits of a break for the young player, have opted to let him "sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career," as reported by Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle. This period will allow Griffin to reflect on his future in the sport, a decision that could have long-term implications for his career trajectory.
Griffin's path forward is laden with uncertainty. Will this hiatus provide the necessary reset for him to come back stronger, or will it mark the end of a brief yet eventful career in professional basketball? The young athlete's future hangs in the balance, teetering between perseverance and a potential early retirement.
The Rockets’ willingness to permit Griffin to sit out the upcoming season showcases a level of understanding and support, often rare in the high-stakes world of professional sports. Recognizing his recent struggles and the potential benefits of taking a break might prove beneficial for both parties involved. It may provide Griffin the space he needs to make an informed decision about his career, free from the immediate pressures of performance and competition.
As fans and analysts speculate on what lies ahead for A.J. Griffin, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional sports. Success can be fleeting, and the journey is fraught with challenges that require not just physical talent but mental resilience and clarity of purpose. Only time will tell how Griffin will navigate this crucial juncture in his professional life.