Report: Rockets surprised by AJ Griffin’s sudden decision to step away from NBA
Even at a modest investment cost, it was always a fair assumption that the Houston Rockets wouldn’t have traded anything for AJ Griffin — not even a 2024 second-round pick — had they known that he would want to step away from basketball before the 2024-25 NBA season begins.
But thanks to new reporting from The Athletic’s Shams Charania and Kelly Iko, it’s now confirmed that Houston did not anticipate what ultimately played out.
Regarding how everything transpired, Charania and Iko wrote:
Following the conclusion of summer league, Griffin and other teammates took part in voluntary workouts at the new practice facility, but as training camp edged closer, Griffin’s appearances — and communication with the organization — diminished. Griffin’s sudden decision is one that the Rockets didn’t anticipate upon trading for him, but understand that his personal life takes priority and have offered their support.
With a contract buyout reached, the Rockets now have an open roster spot.
However, in similar reporting to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle, The Athletic’s story says that Houston does not have any plans to immediately fill that spot. Rather, general manager Rafael Stone wants to “remain flexible and patient on the market, especially as players around the league become available once training camps open.”
Training camps for the 2024-25 NBA season will open on Tuesday, Oct. 1.
More: With AJ Griffin off roster, why Rockets might not immediately fill his vacated spot
This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Report: Rockets surprised by AJ Griffin’s sudden decision to step away
