Houston Rockets Buy Out AJ Griffin's Contract

The Houston Rockets and forward A.J. Griffin have agreed to a $250,000 buyout, allowing Griffin to step away from basketball to consider his future. Griffin, the 21-year-old former first-round pick from Duke and son of former NBA player Adrian Griffin, was acquired by Houston from Atlanta in a three-team trade this offseason. Despite a promising rookie year with the Hawks, Griffin's performance declined in his second season, leading to his request for a break from the sport. Griffin averaged 7.5 points over two NBA seasons but struggled last season and in the Las Vegas Summer League. The buyout frees up a roster spot for the Rockets as Griffin decides whether to continue his NBA career.