Suns rolling while anticipating Jalen Green’s comeback

Jan 19, 2026 8:04 AM

Phoenix has been on a strong run lately, capturing 11 wins in its last 16 outings and picking up two of those victories against New York within eight days.

Despite spending much of the season without Jalen Green, one of the franchise’s most important offseason acquisitions, the Phoenix Suns have remained firmly in the mix for a top-six spot in the Western Conference, sitting at 25-17 overall.

After Saturday’s win over the New York Knicks, Devin Booker acknowledged how much the team has felt Green’s absence, while also emphasizing what he brings when available.

“We miss Jalen,” Booker said, according to Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic. “I think Jalen, he’s another person out there that’ll have rim presence for us and draw a lot of fouls. [Collin Gillespie], he’s really punctual.

“He’s going to get to his middy. Grayson (Allen) has some rim pressure, but we’re all getting excited for Jalen.”

Grayson Allen reinforced that optimism, pointing to Green’s ability to elevate the offense once he’s back in the lineup.

“Just another guy who can create his own shot, create advantages for other people,” Allen said. “Make tough shots. Draw two defenders. He’s a big-time scorer. So he’ll help a lot.”

Signs are pointing toward Green being close to a return.

Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic reported that the fifth-year guard is officially listed as questionable for Monday’s matchup against Brooklyn, and while nothing has been finalized, head coach Jordan Ott sounded encouraged after Saturday’s shootaround.

“Everything seemed to be good,” Ott said when discussing Green’s third round of five-on-five action. “So, we’ll see. Still going in the right direction.”

Booker added that the Suns may have erred on the side of caution with Green’s recovery, suggesting the guard was eager to get back sooner.

“He’s been licking his chops getting ready for this moment,” Booker said. “I think we’ve overdone it with keeping him out. He’s going to be healthy and strong and ready to go.”