The Phoenix Suns have been playing the long game with Jalen Green this season-and Devin Booker is starting to feel the strain.
Green, just 23 years old, has only suited up for two games this year due to a lingering hamstring injury that’s kept him sidelined since November. When the Suns dealt Kevin Durant to the Rockets, the expectation was that Green would help fill some of that offensive void alongside Booker. But with Green stuck in recovery mode, it’s been Dillon Brooks-not the former No. 2 overall pick-who’s stepped into the spotlight.
Booker, ever the competitor, isn’t hiding his frustration with how cautious the team has been with Green’s return. While he understands the need to protect a young player’s long-term health, he also knows what Green brings to the table-and how much the Suns need it right now.
“We miss Jalen,” Booker said. “He’s another person out there that’ll have enough presence for us and draw a lot of fouls.
We’re all getting excited for Jalen. He’s been saying it, been licking his chops, getting ready for this moment.
I think we’ve overdone it with keeping him out. He’s gonna be healthy and ready to go.”
That’s not just lip service. Booker has seen what Green can do in practice.
He knows the scoring punch and athleticism the young guard can provide when he’s at full speed. Green’s game has drawn lofty comparisons in the past-even to the late Kobe Bryant-and while that’s a high bar, there’s no denying the talent is there.
The Suns just need him on the floor.
This isn’t the first time Booker has had to shoulder the load while waiting on reinforcements. Since entering the league back in 2015, he’s been the constant in Phoenix-through the rebuilds, the playoff droughts, and the Finals run in 2021.
He’s played alongside some of the biggest names in the league, from Chris Paul to Kevin Durant to Bradley Beal. But through it all, the Suns have remained Booker’s team.
And this season, he’s once again proving why.
Just a couple of weeks ago, Booker delivered a signature moment-draining a clutch three-pointer against the Oklahoma City Thunder to cap off a dramatic win. It was a reminder of what he’s capable of when the game is on the line. At 29, he’s still in his prime, still evolving, and still hungry for that elusive championship.
But even the best need help.
Booker knows the Suns can’t reach their ceiling without a full, healthy roster-and that includes Jalen Green. If Green can get back on the court and find his rhythm, it could be a game-changer for Phoenix down the stretch.
The talent is there. The opportunity is waiting.
And Booker, for one, is ready to see it all come together.