In the world of basketball, the Houston Rockets seem to be operating in a bubble, completely oblivious to the current state of affairs. As the dust settles from Paul George’s departure from the Los Angeles Clippers and Klay Thompson’s contract disputes with the Golden State Warriors, the Rockets are facing their own dilemma with key players.
According to a report from The Athletic’s Kelly Iko, there are doubts that rising stars Alperen Şengün and Jalen Green will receive max rookie extensions. Both players are eligible for a lucrative five-year deal worth up to $224.2 million, but the Rockets seem hesitant to commit.
When it comes to Jalen Green, his career shooting splits tell a tale of inconsistency. While his potential is undeniable, his performances on any given night can vary wildly. At times, he’s a shining example of why he was selected as the second overall pick in the NBA Draft. Other times, he seems to fade into the background like a specter, failing to make a significant impact on the game.
Despite these ups and downs, there are signs of growth in Green’s game. Becoming a father has sparked a new level of dedication and maturity in him. He still maintains his jovial personality, but there’s a newfound seriousness in his approach to the game. His defensive presence has improved, his rebounding has become more aggressive, and his overall efficiency has shown signs of progress.
There’s still work to be done for Green to prove himself worthy of a max contract, but the trajectory he’s on is promising. The Rockets may be hesitant now, but if Green continues on this path, he could soon make a compelling case for their investment in his future.
