The Houston Rockets have made a significant roster move by waiving A.J. Griffin through a contract buyout worth $250,000. At just 21 years old, Griffin is contemplating stepping away from basketball, leaving fans and analysts speculating on the duration of his hiatus.
Griffin, who was selected 16th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, began his journey with high expectations. His college tenure was spent at Duke, where his impressive performance secured him a spot in the first round of the draft. During his rookie season, Griffin showcased his potential by averaging nine points per game and boasting a 39% shooting rate from beyond the arc in 20 minutes of play per game.
One of Griffin's standout moments came when he scored a career-best 24 points in two separate games. Despite these promising statistics, Griffin faced challenges in his transition to the professional level. He started in 12 games during his rookie year, a testament to the Hawks' initial belief in his abilities. However, his journey took a turn when he was traded to the Houston Rockets.
Challenges and Transitions
The trade that sent Griffin to Houston also involved the Hawks receiving the No. 43 overall pick, Nikola Durisic. While trades are part and parcel of an NBA player's career, Griffin's struggles with the Rockets became evident, especially during the Las Vegas Summer League last July. Adjusting to his new team and finding his rhythm seemed challenging, raising concerns about his future performance.
Griffin's professional journey is also shaped by his lineage. He is the son of Adrian Griffin, a former NBA player and the current head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite having a mentor with substantial experience in the NBA, A.J. Griffin seems to be at a crossroads in his young career.
A Fork in the Road
The decision to waive Griffin came as he was contemplating his future in the sport. According to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle, Griffin plans to "sit out the [2024-25] season while considering whether to continue his career." This statement underscores the uncertainty surrounding Griffin's future and indicates that the hiatus could either be a brief respite or a step towards a permanent exit from professional basketball.
The Rockets’ decision to permit Griffin to sit out the upcoming season likely reflects both his recent struggles and the potential benefits that a break might offer. Taking time away from the sport could provide Griffin with the mental and physical reset he needs to evaluate his career path carefully.
The Road Ahead
While fans and analysts alike await further developments, Griffin’s decision will undoubtedly impact not just his career but also potential strategies for both the Rockets and other NBA teams who might be interested in his talents. If Griffin decides to return, his previous form suggests he has the capability to make a significant comeback. However, should he choose to step away permanently, it would mark the end of a journey that, while brief, showcased glimpses of remarkable talent.
Regardless of the outcome, A.J. Griffin's situation serves as a reminder of the pressures and uncertainties that professional athletes face. Balancing personal well-being and career aspirations often involves difficult decisions, and Griffin’s current crossroads epitomizes this challenge. As he takes this time to reflect, the basketball community remains eager to see where his path will lead him next.