Jeff Green Playing Vital Role in Houston Rockets Success: 'That's My Duty'

Even as a veteran voice, Jeff Green has played an important role in the Houston Rockets recent success.

HOUSTON — The Houston Rockets extended their winning streak to six Sunday night in a 107-104 victory over the Denver Nuggets. 

Fred VanVleet led the team in scoring with 26 points in the win, while Alperen Şengün added 23 points, eight rebounds and five assists. But inside the Toyota Center, Jeff Green provided the most significant boost.

He came off the bench and scored 13 of the Rockets' 33 points in the fourth quarter. And each time the Nuggets had possession; Green called out Denver's plays to help give Houston a defensive advantage.

"My job has always been to come in to bring energy and effort," Green said. "The years I put in analyzing the game, coming off the bench and seeing what void can be filled. 

"That's my duty, whether it be energy, whether it be screening, whether it be offensive capabilities, whether it be defense, running or anything. That's my job at this point is to do whatever it takes to fill those voids that we need, maybe get a lead or bring energy in order to win."

Green played a vital role in helping the Rockets close their seven-game homestand with a 6-1 record. But 10 games in, Green has surpassed the modest expectations he came into the season with.

When the Rockets signed Green to a one-year deal in July, it appeared he would not have a consistent role within coach Ime Udoka's rotation. The main objective for the 37-year-old forward was to be a prominent voice to help Houston reset a culture that has been in question since 2021. 

Rockets forward Jeff Green (32) reacts to his three-point basket against Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. (1) in the second half at Toyota Center / Thomas Shea-USA TODAY

He is filling his responsibilities as an essential veteran within the locker room. Şengün said Green is one of the primary veterans who have been hard on the younger guys. But whenever Udoka needs versatility, he has relied upon Green's services to assist with the Rockets' on-court play. 

In Friday's win over the New Orleans Pelicans, Green was a key contributor in helping the Rockets slowdown All-Star forward Zion Williamson. He erupted for 18 points during the first half. However, once Green received more playing time in the second half, the Rockets limited Williamson to six points.

Slowly but surely, Green is developing a replica of his role that helped the Nuggets win the 2023 NBA Championship in June. He played a vital role as a reserve in Denver who averaged 19.5 minutes during the team's championship run. He also served as a veteran voice within Denver's locker room, alongside DeAndre Jordan and Ish Smith. 

"We miss Uncle Jeff," Nuggets coach Mike Malone said. "The leadership, mentorship — that comes in many different ways. Jeff Green is one of the most professional guys I've ever been around. He stays in shape, stays ready. So even the example he sets for young players is just profound."