The Phoenix Suns made headlines this offseason with a blockbuster move that sent future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets. In return, Phoenix acquired a promising young star in Jalen Green, a former No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft out of G League Ignite. With explosive athleticism and scoring ability, Green brings a new dimension to a Suns roster looking to retool and remain competitive in a deep Western Conference.
A Career Year in Houston
In his fourth NBA season, the 22-year-old Green put up the best numbers of his young career:
• 21.0 points per game
• 42.3% field goal shooting
• 35.4% from three
• 81.3% from the free throw line
• 4.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 0.9 steals per game
He started all 82 games for the Rockets in 2024-25, showcasing his durability, consistency, and a clear leap in maturity on both ends of the court. Green established himself as a primary scoring option, capable of attacking off the dribble, hitting from deep, and finishing above the rim with elite athleticism.
Playoff Lessons Learned
Green’s first taste of playoff basketball came in the 2025 postseason when Houston faced the Golden State Warriors in the opening round. He flashed star potential in Game 2, pouring in 38 points and knocking down eight threes. But over the final five games of the series, Green struggled to find rhythm against Golden State’s playoff-tested defense, scoring just 48 points combined as the Rockets were eliminated.
While inconsistent, the playoff experience was invaluable for Green. It gave him a taste of the intensity and strategic challenges that define postseason play—lessons he will carry into his new role in Phoenix.
A New Home, A Bigger Opportunity
The Suns’ acquisition of Green marks a major shift in the team’s trajectory. While the Durant era didn’t yield a title, Phoenix remains committed to contending—this time with a younger core.
Jalen Green now finds himself paired with Devin Booker, one of the league’s premier scorers and a seasoned playoff performer. The duo has the potential to form one of the most dynamic backcourts in the NBA. Green’s slashing, vertical pop, and improving outside shot complement Booker’s polished midrange and playmaking game.
Though Bradley Beal remains on the roster, early signs point to Green and Booker as the long-term pillars in the backcourt. With the ball-sharing and spacing potential between the two, Green could be in line for the most efficient season of his career.
What Green Brings to the Suns
• Explosiveness: Green’s quick first step and leaping ability give Phoenix an athlete who can pressure defenses in transition and in the half-court.
• Scoring Upside: Already a 20-point scorer, he’s capable of going off for 30+ on any given night.
• Growth Potential: At just 22, his best basketball is ahead of him. A more stable system and mentorship from Booker could accelerate his development.
Final Take
Jalen Green isn’t just a throw-in piece in the Kevin Durant trade—he’s a foundational player with All-Star upside. His ability to grow into a complete two-way guard will be critical to the Suns’ future.
As Phoenix retools around Booker and a young core, Green has a chance to carve out his own legacy in the Valley. If he embraces the moment, improves his decision-making, and builds chemistry with Booker, he could be the X-factor that keeps the Suns in contention for years to come.
The spotlight is on Jalen Green—and now in Phoenix, he has every opportunity to shine.
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