Jalen Green's lackluster playoff performance may prompt Rockets to seek trades for stars like Kevin Durant and Giannis, in search of reinforcements.
A fresh spin:
Jalen Green ignites Houston Rockets fans with electrifying Game 2 display
Jalen Green was nothing short of sensational in Game 2 of the first-round series against the Golden State Warriors, sending Rockets fans in a frenzy with his explosive performance. The Rockets, making their long-awaited return to postseason action since 2020, found themselves leveling the series at 1-1 after Green's sparkling display, scoring 38 points and knocking down eight three-pointers[4].
This remarkable outing from Green offered an exciting glimpse into the future, finally unveiling the young guard as Houston's top scoring option in the playoffs. He became the first Rockets player since James Harden to score at least 30 points in a playoff game in 2020[4].
With the bright lights shining and the court seemingly enormously expanded, Green candidly acknowledged the initial jitters he experienced in the opening game, where he managed just seven points on a dismal 3-of-15 shooting[5]. However, he was adamant that he answered back resolutely and effectively.
Following Green's electrifying night, the Rockets managed to snatch back the momentum lost during Game 1 to the Warriors, appearing to have found the ideal offensive rhythm against their opponents.
Unfortunately, the momentum swung again, leaving Green's Game 2 heroics as a distant memory. The Rockets dropped Game 3 by 11 points, followed by a narrow 109-106 loss in Game 4 to fall into a 3-1 hole[4]. Green scored a combined 17 points in the two games, but the Rockets miraculously managed to win Game 5, achieving a 31-point lead at one point. Nevertheless, Green mustered only 11 points in this matchup, and he had just 12 points in the ensuing Game 6 win on the road, narrowly avoiding elimination[4].
Although Green's performances during the latter stages of the series were considerably underwhelming, Houston found itself in a position to potentially clinch a comeback from a 3-1 deficit and dethrone their bitter rivals. With another chance to shine on home turf and solidify his status as the star the organization expects him to become, Green had an opportunity to make amends for his earlier follies against the Warriors.
However, this time fortune didn't favor the young guard, and the entire season's hope came crashing down as Stephen Curry and Draymond Green served as a stark reminder of the Warriors' playoff dominance[4].
Jalen Green's playoff struggles derail Rockets' dreams
In their heartbreaking 103-89 Game 7 loss on Sunday night, the Rockets bid adieu to the 2025 playoffs, unable to surpass the first round as a 2-seed in the West[6].
Despite their incredible resilience in securing two consecutive elimination victories to force a do-or-die Game 7 at home, the Warriors proved to be an unbeatable force, boasting their extensive championship experience, and possessing two of the league's top closers in Curry and Jimmy Butler[6]. Furthermore, Buddy Hield's exceptional performance threaten the Rockets' offensive playmaking, which ultimately proved fatal in Game 7.
While Alperen Sengun, Fred VanVleet, and Amen Thompson shone brightly at times throughout the series, they couldn't propel the team past the Warriors in the absence of consistent contributions from Green[6].
Green put in a commendable 38-point performance in the Rockets' Game 2 win, but he failed to repeat that form in almost every subsequent match, combining for just 55 points over the other six games of the series[6]. He scored more than 12 points in only one game during the series, raising concerns about his inconsistency and indecision[5].
"I don't think I've played good at all, for real," Green admitted ahead of Game 6, speaking to Kelly Iko of The Athletic[5]. "I had one game at the crib which was pretty good, but overall, I haven't really been myself."
Despite his struggles, Green acknowledged his role in the team's playoff demise, as he lamented his lackluster performances following the Game 7 loss[5].
"Straight s**t. I got to be better. First playoffs is no excuse5 Yeah, I've got to be better."
Each member of the front office, including general manager Rafael Stone, coach Ime Udoka, and owner Tilman Fertitta, has consistently backed the young core they have assembled, which includes Green and Sengun[6]. However, concerns surrounding Green's durability and tendency to disappear on offense during crucial moments will undoubtedly lead to discussions about the future of this camp.
Rockets' Amen Thompson delivers Game 2 masterclass, earning Stephen Curry's respect
Despite the team’s disappointing playoff exit, it is worth highlighting the exceptional performance delivered by Amen Thompson in Game 2, especially earning the admiration of Stephen Curry. After averaging just 10.8 points and 8.9 rebounds during the regular season, Thompson erupted for 38 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks, displaying a rare versatility and skillset in the process[4].
The combination of Green's consistent struggles and Thompson's determination and potential raises a crucial question regarding Houston's future. Who will become the undisputed leader the team can rely on consistently in high-pressure situations?
The basketball court is Houston Rockets’ playground
Following the team’s playoff disappointment, a period of introspection and substantial changes may be on the horizon. And while uncertainty clouds Houston's core roster, there is no denying that this young, talented group has a bright future ahead, as all of its members continue to grow and evolve.
Stay tuned for an in-depth analysis of the Rockets' next moves, their potential targets in the offseason, and a closer look at the epic showdown with the Golden State Warriors that left fans ecstatic and heartbroken at the same time.
The Rockets' disappointing playoff exit has reignited rumors about the future of their young star, Jalen Green. Despite his impressive 38-point performance in Game 2, Green struggled in the subsequent games, raising concerns about his consistency in high-pressure situations.
The NBA Draft might provide the Rockets with an opportunity to address their problems at the guard position, as they search for a reliable scorer to complement Green.
As the offseason approaches, the odds of significant changes in Houston's roster are high, with Green's role and future with the team being a major point of discussion.
In a surprising turn of events, the focus has shifted from Green's electrifying playoffs debut to Amen Thompson's masterclass in Game 2, leaving NBA fans questioning who will emerge as the team's undisputed leader in the future.
The basketball court will remain Houston Rockets' playground, but the team's trajectory in the upcoming seasons will heavily depend on the decisions made by the front office in the coming months.
