Jalen Green, a former guard for the Houston Rockets, expressed that his trade to the Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster deal with Kevin Durant didn't surprise him. With Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks as his teammates, the No. 2 pick from 2021 is now gearing up for a new chapter in Phoenix.
Jalen Green appeared completely unfazed on Friday night as he took a courtside seat to observe his new team, the Phoenix Suns, during the NBA Summer League action. The ex-Houston Rockets standout admitted he anticipated the trade well ahead of its official announcement.
“Absolutely, I sensed that coming.” “They’ve been attempting to move me since last year,” Green shared with the Houston Chronicle. “I’m not overreacting.” This decision is in the best interest of the team. Ultimately, it is all about the bottom line. I am struggling to cope with my emotions. What will be, will be.
Green, the second overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, has been central to Houston's rebuilding efforts for the past four seasons. Last month, the Rockets traded him to Phoenix as part of a deal for superstar Kevin Durant—a clear indication of Houston’s transition towards experienced players.
Green revealed that he learned about the trade initially from Rockets general manager Rafael Stone, followed by a conversation with his agent. Stone commended Green's professionalism, stating, “Jalen fulfilled all our requests.”
The 22-year-old guard officially signed with the Suns last week and is starting to adapt to his new role and city. “It’s distinct,” Green remarked. “I’ve only experienced Houston, so this is an entirely different scenario.” However, I feel a sense of anticipation. It marks a new beginning.
The Suns are undergoing a significant shift, focusing on their franchise guard, Devin Booker, as they part ways with Durant and are actively looking for a trade partner for Bradley Beal.
Dillon Brooks, a former teammate from the Rockets and a key figure in the Durant trade, is set to reunite with Green. He expressed his excitement about teaming up in the backcourt with Booker, who recently signed a two-year, $145 million max extension with the Suns.
“Devin is a canine.” “I believe we have the potential to enhance each other's strengths,” Green stated. “I’m eager to get started.”
Despite concluding his journey with the Rockets, Green conveyed a sense of goodwill. “I hold nothing but affection for Houston,” he expressed. “This is my origin.” However, the moment has arrived to embark on a fresh endeavor.
As the Suns set their sights on a significant playoff journey, Green stands poised to transition from a key player in the rebuilding phase to a vital contributor in the postseason—and he’s prepared to embrace the challenge ahead.
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