Portland outlasted Phoenix on Tuesday to claim the No. 7 seed and a date with the San Antonio Spurs. Jalen Green scored a team-high 35 points in the Suns’ 114-110 loss, logging a season-high 39 minutes as he navigates two strained right hamstring injuries this season.
Green, the former No. 1 overall pick, has been cleared to play Friday and is not listed on the Suns’ official injury report, indicating no restrictions for the game. Grayson Allen (strained left hamstring) and Mark Williams (sore left foot) are listed as questionable and will be reevaluated before tip-off, with decisions expected to be updated closer to game time.
Green’s performance against Portland highlighted his impact for Phoenix, including his athleticism and willingness to take big shots in clutch moments. The Suns acquired Green, along with Dillon Brooks and a 2026 No. 10 pick, from Houston in the Durant trade, and Green quickly became a prized asset due to his age, scoring ability and team-friendly contract.
Analysts have noted that Green brings a dynamic blend of burst and scoring that can reshape Phoenix’s floor, even as he continues to develop consistency and efficiency. His fit with the Suns’ system has been a focal point of season evaluations as they pursue a playoff berth in the play-in.
Against the Warriors in 14 regular-season games, Green has averaged 13.1 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists on 31.2% shooting, including 21.5% from three. In last year’s playoff series between the Rockets and Warriors, he posted about 13.3 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.9 assists on 37.2% shooting and 29.5% from three.
Friday’s Play-In winner will earn the No. 8 seed and face the Thunder in the opening round, making Green’s health and performance a critical factor for Phoenix as they push to advance to the playoffs.
