Rockets’ Jalen Green Shines Despite All-Star Snub

HOUSTON, Texas – Jalen Green, guard for the Houston Rockets, is enjoying one of the most successful seasons of his career, averaging 21.4 points per game this season. However, despite his impressive performance, Green’s name has often been absent from discussions about the league’s top guards, and he was notably snubbed for the All-Star game even as the Rockets boast one of the best records in the Western Conference.

Former NBA player Austin Rivers, son of Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers, recently praised Green’s capabilities and achievements on the court. ‘For whatever reason, no one is talking about his season this year. Jalen Green is having a fantastic year, and he’s picked up right where he left off last year. He finds his spots on the floor. He’s a certified bucket and a supreme talent,’ Rivers said.

Green’s resilience also stands out; he has played in 166 consecutive games since February 2023, demonstrating his durability and commitment to the team. The Rockets selected him with the second overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, and he has quickly become a pivotal player in their lineup. With a solid mix of experience and youth surrounding him, the potential for Green to evolve into a superstar is evident to the Houston fanbase.

In a recent game against the Golden State Warriors, the Rockets showcased their depth and teamwork, with each player contributing to a decisive victory. This match underscored the Rockets’ strong season, as they secured their spot in the playoffs with a current record of 52-27.

Draymond Green of the Warriors also took notice of the Rockets’ talents, particularly highlighting Jalen Green and others for their performances. ‘If this is a team we see in the playoffs, I like the matchup,’ Draymond Green said, echoing sentiments regarding Houston’s effectiveness. ‘We’ve got experience in the playoffs. I love our chances if we see this team in the Western Conference playoffs, but they do play us tough.’

Looking ahead, the potential for a playoff matchup between the Rockets and the Warriors looms large, with the Rockets positioning themselves as the second seed in the Western Conference. The first round of the NBA playoffs is set to commence sometime around April 19 or April 20, solidifying the Rockets’ status as a contender this postseason.

However, the Rockets’ success has not come without scrutiny. Some players, like Boston Celtics‘ Jaylen Brown, have called out the style of play exhibited by Rockets forward Dillon Brooks. Brown suggested that Brooks employs trash-talking as a tactic to gain an edge in games, noting, ‘The only person who really does weird stuff and talk trash is Dillon Brooks. That’s his gimmick.’ While such antics may draw criticism, Brooks’ defensive skills remain crucial to the Rockets’ strategy and success.

Despite the criticisms and the competitive landscape of the NBA, the 2024-2025 season has been a breakthrough for the Rockets, blending a solid mix of scoring and defensive prowess with youthful energy and leadership. As the playoffs approach, all eyes will be on Jalen Green and his teammates to see if they can translate their regular-season success into postseason victories.