The Houston Rockets’ Game 4 loss to the Golden State Warriors continues to create buzz around the league.
Former Boston Celtics defensive specialist Tony Allen has expressed sharp criticism of Rockets star Jalen Green, suggesting that the team should consider dealing with younger security guards.
Allen believes Green has failed to make the expected playoff leap following a pattern of concern for Houston fans.
After an explosive 38-point performance in Game 2, Green’s production plummeted dramatically.
He managed just 9 and 8 points respectively in the final two games, shooting deep smal 20% while committing five turnovers in just 25 minutes in a decisive game 4.
Allen compared directly to Jordan Pool, traded to Washington by the Golden State after failing to develop consistency as the secondary scorer behind Stephen Curry.
“Jalen Green, I thought this was a series where he did that jump. He could just go to a place where he could play, a freelance,” Allen told Chris Vernon’s show. “You’ve started Jordan pooling him somewhere.”
The former Memphis Grizzlies questioned why Green saw a limited amount despite winning an explosion early in the series.
“There are things he doesn’t do because to get 38 because the coach doesn’t have the trust to play him mid-game,” Allen observed.
Allen suggested that the Rockets should act quickly, but Green’s trade value remains high due to his youth and potential for scoring.
He believes Green’s skill set has not been translated into playoff success. There, Houston needs two-way clutch performers.
Green’s defensive limitations are also under scrutiny, recording only one steal in the last two games.
“He needs to go somewhere. He can just grow as a flat-out scorer. That’s what you are, a flat-out scorer,” Allen said, acknowledging that the green youth is a factor in his development.
“But again I started seeing it, age too. All of its talent, I think they can gather it quickly.”
As the Rockets enter the crucial offseason, the organization faces tough decisions about the future of their younger cores and whether Green fits into their long-term playoff aspirations.