After being acquired in the blockbuster Kevin Durant trade, Jalen Green has finally joined the Phoenix Suns lineup following a hamstring injury. The 23-year-old guard, who averaged 20.1 points per game during his four seasons with the Houston Rockets, made his Suns debut on Thursday against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Green missed the entire preseason and the first eight regular-season games due to a right hamstring strain. He was part of the 2025 offseason deal that sent future hall-of-famer Kevin Durant to Houston, along with Dillon Brooks and the No. 10 overall pick in the 2025 draft, which the Suns used to select Khaman Maluach.
Although new to Phoenix and yet to suit up for a game until this matchup, Green expressed that he has quickly found a sense of belonging with the Suns. He emphasized the positive connections he's made with teammates and staff alike.
“Coming here, I got to know the team, and I picked up with everybody very fast. Everyone is cool and has the same goals and mentality, so that makes it easy when you’re chasing that same goal with somebody. … From the coaching staff, to the players, to the front office, everyone is just great. The relationships molded fast.”
Green’s debut provides the Suns with a key offensive asset as they aim for success this season with their revamped roster.
Author’s summary: After recovering from injury, Jalen Green debuts for the Suns, embracing his new team and ready to contribute following the major Kevin Durant trade.