Jalen Green can't replace Dillon Brooks, but the Suns need him to get buckets
CBS Sports
by
Brad Botkin
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Phoenix Suns face a significant challenge with Dillon Brooks sidelined due to a broken hand and Devin Booker out for at least a week with a hip strain. Both players are averaging over 21 points per game, leaving a substantial scoring gap the team must fill. Enter Jalen Green, acquired in the Kevin Durant trade, who has shown glimpses of brilliance but struggles with consistency. His ability to step up and replace Brooks' production will be crucial for Phoenix's playoff hopes.
Green, 24, made $33.5 million last season and is set to earn $36.2 million next year, with a $36 million player option in 2025-26. His contract raises the stakes as he needs to prove his value. While Green isn't the defender Brooks is, he excels at creating shots for himself—a trait Brooks has also honed this season. However, Green's inconsistent shooting and inability to consistently deliver efficient scoring has been a problem since joining the Suns.
Despite averaging 13.3 points in limited action this season, Green showed flashes of his potential, including a 26-point performance against San Antonio and a clutch three-pointer against the Magic. His unassisted shot rate is one of the highest among wings, but his overall efficiency remains low. The Suns need him to step up now, as they are just two games back of the Timberwolves for the sixth playoff spot.
Green's opportunity isn't do-or-die this season, but it's a critical chance to reset perceptions. Currently regarded as a negative asset by some analytics, Green needs to prove he can be a winning player on a winning team. His performance in the coming weeks will determine whether he can turn his talent into consistent success or
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/23/2026