After being acquired in the Kevin Durant trade, Jalen Green has not yet played for the Phoenix Suns due to a right hamstring strain. This changed on Thursday when Green finally took the court for the Suns against the Los Angeles Clippers.
The trade that sent future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets in the 2025 offseason brought several key players to Phoenix, including Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and the No. 10 overall draft pick, which the Suns used to select Khaman Maluach.
“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.”
Despite missing the preseason and the first eight regular-season games due to injury, Green said he has already built strong connections both on and off the court with his new Suns teammates and staff.
Green’s return adds depth and scoring ability to the Suns' backcourt as they continue their campaign following a high-profile offseason reshaping.
Author’s summary: Jalen Green finally debuts for the Phoenix Suns after a hamstring injury, bringing scoring talent and strong team chemistry from day one following his acquisition in the Kevin Durant trade.