Jeff Green, a veteran forward for the Houston Rockets, is a finalist for NBA Teammate of the Year despite limited playing time expected in the upcoming playoffs. His leadership and experience are anticipated to positively influence the team's postseason performance.
Barring major injuries or blowout margins, veteran forward Jeff Green is unlikely to play much for the Houston Rockets during the 2026 NBA playoffs (starting with a first-round matchup versus the Los Angeles Lakers).
But a lack of on-court minutes doesnāt mean that Green ā who is winding down his third season with the 52-30 Rockets ā canāt make a postseason impact.
Speaking after Sundayās regular-season finale, in which Green played 24 minutes due to a combination of the gameās inconsequential stakes and its lopsided margin, the 39-year-old addressed the teamās upcoming playoff run.
Among his comments (via Space City Home Network):
This is what we play for. The playoffs are a different feeling, and I love it.. The competitive nature is what you play for. That bolt of energy that you get from the first game is amazing. I always look forward to it.
Iām blessed. Our team did a great job of allowing my career, in my 19th year, to be in that position again. So, Iām thankful for them, and Iām going to be the biggest cheerleader over there. Helping them out, calling out plays, and making sure that weāre in the right spots... because those guys are going to get me where I need to go. Looking forward to it.
That mindset is among the reasons that Green was recently named as a finalist for the NBAās 2025-26 Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year Award.
According to the league office, the annual honor recognizes the player deemed the best teammate based on selfless play; on- and off-court leadership as a mentor and role model to other NBA players; and commitment and dedication to the team.
With six finalists from the Eastern and Western Conference, the winner will be selected by a poll of current NBA players and announced later this spring.
More: Rockets (52-30) finish season with win, draw Lakers as playoff opponent
This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Jeff Green, NBA Teammate of the Year? Rockets veteran shows why heās a finalist
Jeff Green is recognized for his leadership and positive influence on his teammates, which has earned him a spot as a finalist for NBA Teammate of the Year.
The Houston Rockets finished the regular season with a 52-30 record and are set to face the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round of the 2026 NBA playoffs.
Jeff Green is unlikely to play significant minutes during the playoffs unless there are major injuries or blowout games.
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