Apr 14, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green (4) against the Portland Trail Blazers during the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
PHOENIX – Friday’s Play-In vs. the Golden State Warriors carries a lot of weight for Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green. This time last year, the 24-year-old was preparing for his playoff debut as the second seed vs. the old Golden State Dynasty headed by Stephen Curry. The Houston Rockets were heavy favorites, with a significant reason because of Green’s play up to this point. However, the dream scenario soon turned ugly quite fast.
Thank you for reading this post, don’t forget to subscribe!
In Game 1, Green scored seven points on three-of-15 shooting at home. The performance set the tone for the rest of the series, as Golden State was able to pull off the upset, as the young guard would play the worst basketball of his life.
Apr 14, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green (4) celebrates a three pointer against the Portland Trail Blazers in the second half during the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Green vs. Warriors in 1st round of 2025 Playoffs:
- 13.3 PPG
- 5.4 RPG
- 2.9 APG
- 37.2% shooting, 29.5% from 3 on 6.3 attempts
May 4, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) shoots the ball over Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) during the fourth quarter of game seven of the first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
The early exit, and Green’s ugly play, led the Rockets to making the drastic move of trading for Suns wing Kevin Durant. The former second overall pick’s stock was the lowest it has ever been, with many seeing his $33 million annual salary as a negative asset. Experts, fans and every voice around the NBA sphere used Green as a punching bag for his outing against the Warriors, being given the label of a playoff choker.
Phoenix was a chance for him to shake off the sting of last year’s disappoint, but a nagging right hamstring injury to start the season made that challenge difficult. Green played a career-low 32 games this season, with trouble finding his groove. However, since March 3rd, he has started to find his joy again.
Mar 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green (4) celebrates after making a three point shot against the Toronto Raptors in the first quarter at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Anna Carrington-Imagn Images
In the last 19 games of the regular season, Green was averaging 21.7 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.4 assists on 45.4% from the field. He was bringing his style back to the court with his handles and tough shot selection that had him smiling and jumping down the court. The momentum continued in Tuesday’s Play-In game, dropping 35 points in a playoff-like atmosphere.
Despite not getting the win, Tuesday was a massive step of Green getting over the sour taste of last year’s early playoff exit. The final step could be Friday against the team that led him to be traded in the first place in Golden State. As the Suns look to stamp themselves in the postseason, Green is looking to showcase his growth from last year’s disaster.
Suns’ Dillon Brooks calls out Steph Curry and Draymond Green, igniting clash against Warriors
Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
