Houston Rockets Lean on Veteran Jeff Green for Playoff Push

HOUSTON, Texas — Jeff Green, a forward for the Houston Rockets, is navigating the final chapter of his NBA career, yet he continues to demonstrate a crucial presence on the court as both a player and mentor.

Selected as the No. 5 overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft, Green is one of only four players from his draft class still competing in the league. Joining him are notable All-Stars Kevin Durant, Al Horford, and Mike Conley, who were drafted immediately after him. Despite not reaching the same All-Star heights as his fellow draftees, Green has maintained his spot in the NBA by cultivating a reputation as a valuable teammate, a key reason the Rockets have retained him.

In the previous season, Green’s primary function was to mentor the younger players on the Rockets’ roster. As Houston aims for a playoff berth for the first time since 2020, his experience is expected to play a vital role in navigating the high-pressure environment of the postseason.

Interestingly, Green joined the Rockets shortly before the pandemic-altered 2020 playoffs, where he made a significant impact in the team’s run in the COVID-19 bubble at Walt Disney World. He averaged 11.6 points per game, contributing to the Rockets’ competitive edge.

While expectations for Green’s scoring output might not match his 2020 statistics, the Rockets are counting on him to bring much-needed leadership and keep morale high among players who are new to the rigors of playoff basketball.

“It’s easy for a young team to feel overwhelmed in high-stakes situations,” Green acknowledged. “What I aim to do is help keep this team focused and grounded, ensuring everyone is ready to perform.”

His wealth of experience in the playoffs positions Green as an essential asset as Houston seeks to advance past the regular season’s end. The Rockets hope his presence will create a steadying influence in the locker room and on the floor.

As fans rally behind the Rockets’ playoff aspirations, Green’s leadership may very well prove to be a determining factor in their journey