Rockets News: Griffin explains departure, subpar starting lineup ranking

Every person in this world has to follow their heart. Even a member of the Houston Rockets has to do what's right for them.

Take AJ Griffin. His sudden departure from the team sent shockwaves around the league. Griffin was entering his third NBA season. How could he be leaving the game already?

Now, we have our answer.

Former Rocket follows religious convictions

"I gave up basketball to follow Jesus," Griffin said. "And I know that in a lot of people's eyes, that seems like -- it seems like a loss in the world's eyes. But, I just want to let you guys know that I'm super excited because I truly get to serve God"

- AJ Griffin

We can't argue with that. All we can do is respect Griffin's convictions.

This was a bold decision. We can assume that it was the right move for Griffin. He's following his passion - and if that passion isn't basketball, he needs to follow his path to God.

There will be disappointment. Griffin is quick to acknowledge that. We still need to respect his decision. Hopefully, Griffin finds fulfillment with his new direction.

From a logistical perspective, the Rockets will be fine. Griffin's place in the rotation was questionable - he certainly wasn't a starting lineup candidate.

Luckily.

Rockets' starting lineup leaves something to be desired

Yahoo Sports recently ranked every team's starting lineup. The Rockets underwhelmed by coming in 20th.

Yahoo's criteria were simple. They first ranked every team's first-through-fifth offensive option. Then, they took each team's average ranking in those areas to make an aggregate ranking.

The Rockets were weighed down heavily by their (alleged) top option. Jalen Green placed 28th among the league's alphas. Meanwhile, Alperen Sengun came in at 18th among second options in the NBA.

We'd suggest that Yahoo got this backward. Sengun was Houston's top option in 2023-24. Green was closer to a 2A alongside Fred VanVleet (who finished 13th among third options). Green may break out and snatch Houston's top spot this year, but it's an interesting operating assumption.

Either way, this list is fluid. If Green does break out this year, he'll climb the top option rankings. Sengun could do the same. Alternatively, a dark horse like Jabari Smith Jr. or Amen Thompson could also disrupt the Rockets' hierarchy.

In the meantime, we can't argue with Yahoo's conclusion, even if we disagree with their methodology. The Rockets' starting lineup isn't among the league's best. Depth will be an advantage in 2024-25, but the Rockets will need to rely on internal development or a blockbuster trade to find top-end talent.

Hopefully, their heart leads them in the right direction.