Suns still haven't gotten the answer to their biggest preseason question

The Phoenix Suns are already three-quarters of the way through the preseason after playing their second game against the Brooklyn Nets. But fans still have yet to see the team’s biggest offseason acquisition, Jalen Green, take the floor in a Phoenix jersey. Green’s fit and role on the team have raised questions, so his absence due to a hamstring injury is especially frustrating.

Jalen Green is entering a completely new situation .

Green began his career in Houston as the Rockets starting shooting guard for 4 seasons before being traded this offseason. He’s already been named the Suns starting point guard for this season, a role he has never played in the NBA. 

Naturally, this change of scenery has raised some questions about Green’s ability to succeed in more of a playmaking role. Some early preseason reps could have helped answer those questions, but unfortunately Green has been sidelined with a low-grade hamstring tear. He doesn’t expect to play any preseason games but still hopes to be ready for the regular season opener on October 22nd.

In the meantime, the Suns have turned to a familiar face for their lead point guard responsibilities. Franchise star Devin Booker has taken up that mantle in the preseason, and generally found success as a playmaker. He’s already establishing chemistry with a new supporting cast.

Hopefully Green can also find chemistry with his new teammates once he’s back in action. Although his new teammates haven’t had as much overall success as last year’s Rockets squad, they do have plenty of offensive talent. Between 3-point shooters and lob finishers, his job as a point guard may be easier in Phoenix than in Houston.

Jalen Green is heading into the most pivotal season of his young career so far. He’s eligible to negotiate a contract extension next year if he declines his player option on his current deal. But as it currently stands, Green has not lived up to the value of his current contract let alone a pay increase.

The Suns are expecting and relying on a massive improvement from Green in terms of efficiency and playmaking. They are offering him ample opportunity to prove his worth in the NBA, but his status in the league could quickly fall off with another poor season. 

The Suns themselves are also going into a big season. Although Booker signed a contract extension this offseason to remain the face of the franchise, he could become disgruntled if the team has another frustrating campaign. Yet another trade request from an All-NBA caliber player would put the Suns in a very disadvantaged position for team building.

Green’s play this season as the starting point guard will have a direct impact on the team’s record. With the role and team being so new to him, it would have been ideal to see him get some reps at that position in the low-stakes environment of preseason. Instead, Green will now be thrown directly into the fire of the regular season.