Jalen Green missed his third consecutive game after sustaining a significant fall during an NBA match, sidelining him once again for the Phoenix Suns’ recent loss to the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. Initially listed as questionable, Green was ultimately ruled out before tip-off and joined teammate Devin Booker, who was also absent due to a right ankle sprain.
Green’s injury involves his right hamstring along with a contusion on his left hip, injuries that stem from a hard fall on his back during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on January 30. This incident follows an earlier stretch where Green missed three games because of right hamstring discomfort.
Details on Green’s Injury from Coach Jordan Ott
During the Suns’ contest with the Cavaliers, Green collided with Jarrett Allen while fighting for a rebound in the third quarter, resulting in a loss of balance and a hard fall onto his back. Although he continued playing for the remainder of the game, it was evident he was struggling with pain.
Addressing reporters before the Warriors game, Suns coach Jordan Ott elaborated on Green’s status, emphasizing caution.
“It’s just the soreness in the hip, and we got to make sure when he’s running at full speed that nothing is out of whack to where it affects the hamstring because he’s coming off the hamstring. Just being smart with it.”
 ? Jordan Ott, Suns Coach
The team has been carefully managing Green’s right hamstring, which has been prone to recurring injuries since training camp. The hip issue may be complicating the hamstring recovery, prompting the Suns to withhold clearance until Green is fully ready to return.
How the Suns Are Performing Without Green
The Suns entered the season facing doubts after trading away Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets and waiving Bradley Beal, who signed with the Los Angeles Clippers. Instead, Phoenix brought in players such as Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and Khaman Maluach to reshape the roster.
Dillon Brooks has become a standout contributor, while rookie Khaman Maluach has gained experience primarily in the NBA G League, appearing in 22 games mostly during less critical moments. Jalen Green, however, has been limited to just five appearances this season due to his ongoing hamstring problems.
Despite these challenges, the Suns have maintained strong competitiveness in the tough Western Conference. Devin Booker, who has earned All-Star honors, is averaging 25.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game. Brooks is also having a career-best season, contributing 21.0 points, 3.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.
In addition, Collin Gillespie has made significant strides in Green’s absence, averaging 13.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. These contributions have helped the Suns secure a 31-21 record, placing them seventh in the West, only two games behind the Denver Nuggets for a top-three spot in the standings.
Implications of Green’s Injury on the Suns’ Season
Jalen Green’s persistent injury issues remain a significant concern for the Suns, considering his expected role as a dynamic contributor following his high draft selection. The franchise’s cautious approach underlines the importance of allowing Green to heal fully to avoid jeopardizing his long-term health.
While the team has adapted impressively in his absence by leveraging the strengths of players like Booker, Brooks, and Gillespie, Green’s return would bolster Phoenix’s ambitions as a playoff contender. How soon he can regain full fitness may influence the Suns’ positioning and performance in the highly competitive Western Conference moving forward.
Jalen Green on the ground after a scary fall pic.twitter.com/4w6LaSuSc7
— Cage (@ridiculouscage) January 31, 2026
