Promising Young Star AJ Griffin Contemplates Retirement After Rockets Buyout

In a surprising turn of events, the Houston Rockets have parted ways with promising young forward AJ Griffin through a contract buyout. The 21-year-old Duke product, who was a first-round pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, is now set to step away from basketball and contemplate his future in the sport.

A Promising Career Derailed by Injuries and Struggles

A Promising Start with the Hawks

AJ Griffin's NBA journey began with the Atlanta Hawks, who selected him with the 16th overall pick in the 2022 draft. The young forward made a strong impression during his rookie season, averaging 8.9 points per game and making 12 starts for the Hawks. His promising start had many basketball enthusiasts excited about his potential.

Struggles and Setbacks in Houston

However, Griffin's career took an unexpected turn when he was involved in a multi-team trade that sent him to the Houston Rockets in June 2023. Despite the fresh start, the young forward struggled to find his footing with the Rockets. He failed to secure a starting role, coming off the bench sparingly in just 20 games and averaging a mere 2.4 points per game.

Injury Woes and Summer League Disappointment

Griffin's struggles were further compounded by injury issues that may have impacted his growth and development within the game. His performance at the NBA Summer League ahead of the upcoming season was also a disappointment, as he shot just 38.2% from the field, including a dismal 28.0% from beyond the arc.

The Difficult Decision to Step Away

Faced with these challenges, Griffin has now decided to take a step back from the game and contemplate his future. The buyout agreement allows him to sit out the 2024-25 NBA season, giving him the time and space to make a decision on whether to attempt a return to the league or retire from professional basketball entirely.

The Griffin Family's NBA Legacy

While this may be a difficult moment for AJ Griffin, the Griffin family has a rich history in the NBA. AJ's father, Adrian Griffin, was a former NBA player who has since transitioned into coaching. The younger Griffin had the opportunity to face his father when the Hawks played the Bucks in the 2023-24 season, a surreal moment that Adrian described as a "special" experience.

The Rockets' Perspective and Future Plans

The Houston Rockets are now preparing for Griffin's exit from the NBA, despite the team's initial optimism about the young forward's potential. The Rockets had hoped that Griffin would be able to contribute in a rotational role, but his struggles and the buyout agreement have forced the team to adjust their plans.As AJ Griffin contemplates his next steps, the basketball world will be watching closely, hoping that this promising young talent can find a path forward, whether it's a return to the NBA or a new chapter in his life. The Griffin family's legacy in the sport continues to unfold, and this latest development adds another intriguing chapter to their story.