3-0! A legendary win-win blockbuster trade! The former face of the Rockets franchise

Welcome back.

The Suns beat Philadelphia 116-110, with Jalen Green making his comeback. He played around 20 minutes off the bench, shooting 4 of 11 overall, including 2 of 4 from beyond the arc, and converted 2 free throws, contributing 12 points, 2 boards, and 3 assists, with a +10 plus-minus.

Suns statistics are as follows:

Philadelphia statistics are as follows:

So far this season, due to injury troubles,Jalen Green has appeared in only 3 games for his new team, all victories, averaging 16.7 minutes per game, putting up 14.3 points, 2 rebounds, and 2.3 assists. He shoots an impressive 44.4% from the field, knocking down 2.7 three-pointers per game. The Suns currently hold a 27-17 record, ranking sixth in the Western Conference, just 0.5 games behind the Rockets in fourth place.

Speaking of Jalen Green, during his four seasons with the Rockets, he maintained excellent attendance, including two seasons with full participation. However, since joining the Suns, injuries have been persistent... This guy was born on February 9, 2002, was the 2021 second overall pick, and still has tremendous potential to unlock—provided he can stay healthy for the long term.

Back to the point, despite losing Durant, the Suns have not lost competitiveness; as mentioned, they have even gained strength this season with hopes of making the playoffs, which they missed last year. Of course, the Rockets have no regrets acquiring Jalen Green and others in exchange for KD. With this veteran superstar holding two Finals MVP trophies, the team finally has championship potential.

Overall, judging by the current situation, the epic blockbuster trade between the Rockets and Suns during last offseason stands as a rare recent example of a true win-win deal.

Actually, the Suns’ success this season has little to do with Jalen Green. It mainly comes from De’Anthony Melton, who was traded to Phoenix alongside him. Melton has started all 38 games this season, averaging 30.8 minutes, with a comprehensive stat line of 20.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. He is Booker’s best teammate and the team’s second-leading star.

Although Melton might not be the most likable guy, that doesn’t stop him from being a perfect piece any team would cherish. The Rockets’ only mistake in acquiring Durant might have been including Melton in the trade package.