However, Jalen Green will not feature in today’s game between the Phoenix Suns and the New Orleans Pelicans due to an injury. According to John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 FM Phoenix, Green has re-aggravated a nagging hamstring strain and is likely to miss a few weeks as he works towards a full recovery.

Gambadoro reports that Green might return by the end of December, which is a major blow for the Suns as he was developing an excellent chemistry with the team’s leader, Devin Booker.

Facing this challenging setback, the Suns will take on the Pelicans, a team struggling with a 2-7 record and missing their main star Zion Williamson due to injury, along with other players who have been underperforming early in the season.

Suns fully staffed, while Pelicans face significant lineup challenges

Despite the absence of Green due to injury for the Suns in their upcoming matchup, the rest of the team is set to take the court, led by the dynamic Devin Booker. The roster is further bolstered by the talents of Dillon Brooks and Grayson Allen, poised to contribute significantly and help the team build momentum during this regular season.

Phoenix has a strong opportunity against the Pelicans, who are grappling with the absence of several key players. In addition to Zion Williamson, New Orleans will be without Jordan Poole due to a left quad strain, Dejounte Murray, recovering from a right Achilles rupture, and two G League two-way players, Trey Alexander and Hunter Dickinson.

Amidst these circumstances, the fan bases of both teams eagerly anticipate a high-caliber showdown as the Suns host the Pelicans. Despite the absences, both franchises are determined to exhibit their strengths and set the tone early in the regular season.

Suns guard Jalen Green is expected to make his 2025–26 season debut on Thursday night against the Clippers. Green (hamstring) missed the team’s first eight games of the season but is officially listed as probable for Thursday’s matchup.

With Green’s return in sight, the Suns enter as home favorites against a Clippers team that will be without James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. Phoenix holds a 3–5 record so far but has shown progress, winning three of its last four home games.

Last season, Green led the Houston Rockets in scoring, averaging 21.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while shooting 42.3% from the field and 35.4% from three-point range. Now, he’s looking to make an immediate impact with the Suns as they fight for playoff contention in a competitive Western Conference, generating plenty of excitement around his debut.

How has Green progressed?

Head coach Jordan Ott said Monday that Green has been progressing well and continues to be evaluated on a day-to-day basis, according to Shane Young of Forbes. “He’s responded really well,” Ott said. “It’s been a productive few days for him. Today was a lighter day on the court, and we’ll keep evaluating him daily. But he’s in a good place.”

According to Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic, Green also participated in full-court five-on-five drills before Saturday’s practice — a strong sign that his return to the NBA is imminent.

Who’s leading the Suns?

Devin Booker continues to lead Phoenix with averages of 31.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game. Mark Williams has added 10.0 points and 6.4 rebounds per contest, providing consistency in the frontcourt. Adding Green to that mix could elevate the Suns’ offense even further — especially if he can maintain the form he showed during his time in Houston.

Green addressed his transition to the Suns during Media Day, choosing to deliver a pointed message regarding his exit from the Rockets rather than simply discussing his new opportunity in Phoenix.

“It wasn’t disappointing; it was more shocking. You kind of get over it. Especially with the Suns being excited to have me here, that’s a good feeling,” Green commented, speaking to the Suns’ communications team about his trade experience.

Entering the NBA with the Rockets during the 2021-22 season, the 23-year-old quickly became a key figure for Houston. However, the Rockets might have felt that his championship aspirations were misaligned with their vision, leading to his inclusion in the trade package.

Green enthusiastic about teaming up with Devin Booker

Faced with the reality of a new chapter, Green shared his thoughts on playing alongside Suns star Devin Booker. His response centered on the immense excitement he feels about collaborating with one of the team’s standout players over recent years.

“I’m thrilled to play with Book [Devin Booker]. I believe it’s going to be a great opportunity; I expect to learn a lot from him while also contributing my own strengths to the team,” Green conveyed to the media.

Green continued, “I think we will complement each other well, especially within the system that our head coach envisions. We’ll support each other greatly, and I’m truly excited about the prospects.”

Insight into Green’s role under head coach Ott

As Green prepares for the upcoming training camp and the regular season, he expressed confidence in head coach Jordan Ott’s game plan. “I believe maintaining space is crucial. He’s been very clear about his desire for us to play with a lot of space,” said Green.

Additionally, Green mentioned that Ott emphasizes a style of play that is “fast and hard,” encouraging the team to “get out and run.” This strategy provides fans with a tantalizing glimpse of the team’s potential in the upcoming season and hints at the possibility of outstanding performances.

“We’re really happy with it (Kevin Durant’s trade). I’ve gotten to know Kevin a little bit, and I’m really happy with him as a person. But the flip side of that is — Dillon (Brooks) and Jalen (Green) were just awesome. As people and as co-workers, they were amazing. We were the number two seed last year, on a very, very, very young team,” Rafael Stone said, via ESPN.

The Houston Rockets’ decision to part ways with Jalen Green has ignited intense debate among fans, who perceive the move as fraught with risk. This bold step stems from the acquisition of Kevin Durant on a one-year deal, offering a unique chance for him to spearhead a championship run and justify the team’s decision to trade the promising young star.

During the previous season, Jalen Green emerged as one of the NBA‘s most exciting talents. Over 82 games, he recorded impressive averages of 21 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. At just 22, he showcased potential that could have driven the Rockets’ offense for years. Yet, his inexperience in leading the team through the postseason ultimately influenced the franchise’s decision to move forward without him.

Is Kevin Durant the missing piece for the Houston Rockets’ rise in their project?

Although the Houston Rockets managed to remain one of the strongest teams in the NBA defensively and collectively, their lack of offensive power ultimately knocked them out in the first round of the playoffs. Therefore, Kevin Durant’s addition to head coach Ime Udoka’s roster feels like the missing piece needed to make a significant impact in the postseason.

At 36, Durant has impressively maintained his scoring average of 26.6 points per game, even amid the Phoenix Suns’ struggles to stand out as a cohesive unit. His influence on a more compact team, where he would shoulder less defensive burden, could be transformative.

Nonetheless, one of the biggest dilemmas is whether he will extend his stay beyond 2026 as a longer tenure could enhance his time with the franchise, offering more opportunities to compete for a championship.

In an interview with Socrates Degri in Youtube, Houston Rockets young star Alperen Sengun confessed that Jalen Green‘s departure from the franchise was not easy for him. “He was like my brother. I was sad when I got the news… I was very sad—but at the same time, Kevin Durant is coming. Still, Jalen was my brother. I called Jalen right away and told him how I felt: ‘I hope this trade motivates you even more.’ Because I believe Jalen is going to be a really great player.”

Alperen and Jalen entered the NBA together in 2021 and played 266 games as a cohesive unit. They quickly emerged as one of the league’s most promising offensive duos. This made Green’s departure a surprising development for fans, who saw him as one of the highest-potential players on the roster.

In the 2024-25 season, Jalen played all 82 games, showing his scoring prowess he averaged of 21 points, 3.4 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game. Despite his good performance, his lack of experience became evident during the postseason, which left some fans disappointed. His transition to the Phoenix Suns provides a chance to grow without the pressure of leading the offense, a role that Devin Booker currently fills.

Could Kevin Durant’s arrival turn the Rockets into serious NBA championship top contenders?

Although the franchise loses a significant asset for the future with the departure of Jalen Green, the arrival of Kevin Durant could be transformative. At 36, the veteran star has managed to remain one of the league’s premier scorers, consistently averaging more than 25 points per game for nine consecutive years.

Moreover, Durant’s ability to shine in crucial moments can be vital. In his last four appearances in the NBA playoffs, he has maintained a scoring average above 26 points while also contributing to the defensive effort and showcasing his veteran experience. Therefore, his arrival could elevate the team to a title-favorite status, as it lacked a player with these capabilities in the 2024-25 season.

Despite the renewed optimism surrounding his one-year contract, the slow negotiation process for an extension has limited the championship window to just a single season. Consequently, many fans are voicing their criticism of this roster management strategy. Only securing the title can alter their perspective on Jalen Green’s departure.

“You start giving out money, For what? What did we achieve? What did we do? You’re giving me this money cos I’m the best player on our team, and you think it’s gonna make me happy. It’s a sugar high. What about winning? This team, to me, has been mismanaged,” Sam Mitchell said, via SiriusXM NBA radio.

Sam Mitchell’s argument has ignited a fierce debate among fans, splitting opinions across the spectrum. Some supporters back his stance, claiming the renewal appears unjustified, especially after the team failed to clinch a spot in the 2025 NBA playoffs despite having a superstar like Kevin Durant on the roster.

On the flip side, many fans believe that delaying Booker’s renewal risks losing the team’s leading scorer, who posted an impressive 2024-25 season with averages of 25.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game. This decision bears significant weight for the future competitiveness of a team that is already experiencing a decline.

Jalen Green makes surprising confession about Devin Booker setting a new tone in Phoenix

Despite having arrived relatively recently at the Phoenix Suns, Jalen Green already claimed to have spoken with Devin Booker. After that, he made a confession about how they feel heading into the 2025-26 season. “He’s (Booker) excited. He’s ready to do what we gotta do, he understands the situation we’re in right now. People don’t expect us to do anything. People don’t expect us to come out of the West at all,” he said, via Phoenix Suns’ X account.

Moreover, Jalen highlighted the similarities between the Suns’ modest expectations for the upcoming season and those of last year’s Houston Rockets. In doing so, he underscored his proven ability to transform a team’s fortunes, signaling his potential to deliver similar success in Phoenix. If Green and Booker develop a strong on-court chemistry, their combined scoring prowess could establish the Suns as formidable contenders in the league.

“I feel good. I’m excited. I think it’s gonna be lit. I bet he’s gon’ kill. We gon’ shock the world,” Jalen Green said, via Houston Chronicle. Then, he confessed that he had a feeling that the franchise had been trying to trade him since the last year. “I’m not tripping. It’s for the better of the team. I know it’s a business at the end of the day… At the end of the day, I still got the opportunity to play basketball.”

The Rockets’ decision surprised many fans, as Jalen Green had established himself as the team’s offensive linchpin. With a strong offensive partner, he could have elevated his game and continued to develop. However, Houston missed this potential, creating an opportunity for the Phoenix Suns to invigorate their lineup by pairing Green with Devin Booker. In Phoenix, Green will find more freedom in his offensive role and can grow alongside the seasoned 28-year-old star, Booker.

How did Jalen Green impact the Houston Rockets during the 2024-25 NBA season?

Jalen Green does not leave the Houston Rockets underperforming; in fact, it solidifies their offensive prowess. At just 22, he played all 82 games in the 2024-25 season, showcasing his scoring ability with an average of 21 points per game. This impressive performance established him as the team’s offensive leader, surpassing Alperen Sengun in the process.

Despite the Rockets have not disclosed specific reasons for Green’s departure, his lack of impact during the postseason might be a significant factor. At a young age, the responsibility of leading a franchise in the playoffs could have proven too daunting for him. In Phoenix, however, Jalen will not shoulder this burden, as Devin Booker leads the team’s offense. This change allows him to face much less pressure and offers more room for growth.

Jalen holds lofty expectations for his partnership with Devin Booker on the offensive front. “We’re two people who know how to score the basketball, we’re two people who know how to attract the defense… And me and him both, it’s going to be a deadly scoring duo,” he said, via the Arizona Republic.

Devin, having formed an exceptional offensive duo with Kevin Durant, already understands the dynamics of teaming up with a prolific scorer. This familiarity bodes well for Phoenix, as their collaboration promises to electrify the offense and captivate fans.

In a recent interview with Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle, Green said the Rockets had been looking to trade him for quite some time. “They’ve been trying to trade me since last year. I’m not tripping,” he said.

Green averaged 21 points per game last season, an improvement over his 2023–24 average of 19.6. He also played in all 82 games for the second year in a row. Despite the surprise trade, he expressed no hard feelings, saying, “It’s for the better of the team. I know it’s a business at the end of the day.”

Ready to team up with Devin Booker

While he revealed that the Rockets had been planning to move him, Green made it clear that he’s focused on the future and just wants to keep playing. “Whatever happens, happens. At the end of the day, I still got the opportunity to play basketball.” He also said he’s excited to play alongside new Suns teammate Devin Booker.

“I feel good. I’m excited,” Green said about the new chapter. “I think it’s gonna be lit. I bet he’s gon’ kill… We gon’ shock the world.” Booker is coming off a strong season himself, averaging 25.6 points per game — second on the team behind Kevin Durant’s 26.6, who is now headed to Houston as part of the blockbuster deal.

Will Jalen Green be the highest-paid player on the Suns?

No — Green will have the third-highest salary on the Suns roster. Devin Booker leads the team with an annual salary of $66 million, followed by Bradley Beal at $50 million. Green is set to earn around $35 million per year.

Shortly after Shams Charania published the report, fans at the event began referencing the news before Durant even addressed it. He responded without revealing much about the move: “We’re gonna see man, we’re gonna see,” Kevin Durant said.

Kevin Durant’s potential addition to the Houston Rockets, while not yet confirmed, could significantly elevate the franchise’s performance. He would provide the offensive powerhouse the Rockets have sought for years. This season, Durant demonstrated his scoring prowess by averaging 26.6 points across 62 games with the Suns, a team still finding its footing in championship contention.

The Houston Rockets traded away a promising future in Jalen Green but gained a powerhouse in Kevin Durant. This move could propel them closer to a championship. Critics often highlighted the team lacked offensive experience during the 2025 NBA playoffs. Neither Jalen Green nor Dillon Brooks managed to shine against the Golden State Warriors. Consequently, the team felt exposed at crucial moments.

Therefore, the franchise seeks to strengthen its championship pursuit by adding Durant. The veteran star brings a proven offensive impact to their roster. His presence could make the difference they need in high-stakes situations. Additionally, his offensive prowess, combined with their defensive solidity, could be a game-changer in the 2025-26 season.

Phoenix Suns reportedly make decision on Jalen Green’s future with the franchise

After trading their offensive star Kevin Durant, the Phoenix Suns are reportedly acquiring Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and the No. 10 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. Initial reports suggested the team might flip Green in a subsequent deal. Nevertheless, reporter John Gambadoro offered a different perspective on the matter.

According to Gambadoro, who shared the update on X, formerly Twitter, the Suns plan to keep Jalen Green and integrate him into their offense alongside Devin Booker. The move signals Phoenix’s intent to build a more sustainable and dynamic core for the future, one that had previously lacked a young, ascending offensive talent.

As Houston’s leading scorer during the regular season, Green entered the playoffs with high expectations. But the 22-year-old guard admitted he fell short when it mattered most. “I gotta be better. First Playoffs isn’t an excuse,” Green told reporters after the loss.

Green’s best showing came in Game 2, when he exploded for 38 points. But his production steadily declined as the series progressed. Including his 7-point outing in Game 7, Green totaled just 55 points over the final five games—averaging 13.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists across the series. That marked a steep drop from his regular-season numbers, when he averaged 21.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists over 82 games.

The struggles could be attributed to playoff pressure and the Warriors’ elite defense, which relentlessly targeted him throughout the series. Amen Thompson, on the other hand, stepped up and provided that second offensive option for the Rockets when both Fred VanVleet and Jalen Green failed to deliver.

Şengün admits that have things to improve

Alperen Şengün also faced his share of challenges, particularly against veteran forward Draymond Green, whose physical defense frustrated the Turkish center throughout the NBA series. While Şengün showed flashes of dominance, he admitted that his offensive game needs refinement.

“I think I improved my defense this season, but I have to work a lot more on my offense,” Şengün said, per Lachard Binkley of Sports Illustrated. “A long summer is waiting for me, so I’ve got a lot to do.”

Despite quality performances, Şengün often found himself forced into tough shots under pressure. Draymond Green, a perennial All-Defensive Team selection, played a pivotal role in disrupting Houston’s interior offense—reminding everyone why he’s still among the league’s most disruptive defenders.

The buzz started after Jalen Green made pointed comments to the media following Golden State’s Game 3 victory over Houston. Draymond wasted no time firing back, using his platform on The Draymond Green Show to address the remarks. His response, delivered candidly during a conversation with co-host Baron Davis, caught many Warriors fans by surprise.

“That’s cool. I don’t do much. That’s fine. I don’t do much, you know. I was just balling your a**,” Draymond said when asked about Jalen’s remarks. The veteran forward didn’t stop there, adding: “I just do what I have to do, but I don’t do much. You know what I’m saying? So, you was balling though. No problem. I’m happy he see it that way. That’s incredible. Shout out to him. A lot of times those are like blanket statements, facts, because you can start believing that and then I ain’t going to say nothing.”

As the Warriors and Rockets prepare for a crucial Game 4, the back-and-forth between Green and Green adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already intense playoff matchup.

Davis shares advice for Jalen Green after comments on Draymond Green

As Draymond Green fired back at Jalen Green’s recent remarks, former NBA player Davis weighed in on how the situation could impact the young Rockets standout ahead of Game 4 of their NBA Playoffs series. Davis emphasized that comments like these can often backfire and affect performance on the court.

“That’s how you get your a** kicked,” Davis said. “There’s a fine line between respect and disrespect. You have to be careful because it could show up on the court, whether it’s not closing out, not boxing out, or letting a guy drive to the hole. So, you know, be careful. That’s what I would say to the young fella, especially in the playoffs because it’s just a different level.“

Draymond Green remains Warriors’ defensive anchor in 2024-25

At 35 years old, Draymond Green continues to anchor the Golden State Warriors‘ defense during the 2024-25 NBA season. His presence on the floor remains crucial, even if the box score doesn’t always reflect the full extent of his impact.

A closer look at Green’s defensive numbers:

• Steals: Averaged 1.5 steals per game over 68 regular-season appearances.
• Blocks: Recorded 1.0 block per game during the regular season.
• Green was one of just two players (alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander) with at least 40 games played to average 1.45+ steals and 1.0+ blocks per game—highlighting his rare two-way disruption.