Head-to-head against a team known for stealth-like, attack-from-behind steals, Jalen Green found that with a one-man fastbreak opportunity standing as his reward, two could certainly play at that game. Embodying mental toughness and growth throughout a breakthrough-like Year Four, the Houston Rockets’ infinitely-talented combo guard offers a “next play” mentality after a misfired middy, sneakily pickpocketing Brandon Boston Jr.’s dribble as if it had a price tag. Successful in what one might call “Green Theft Auto,” Houston’s dynamic scorer gives the New Orleans Pelicans one final dose of its own medicine, soaring skyward for an almost-effortless tomahawk punch. Admittedly eyeballing the high-profile, five-game homestand immediately to follow, Green and the Rockets handled business early, forgoing the need to play in the fourth quarter altogether after a blowout victory. Picking “30” as his number of significance, Green put together point-per-minute brilliance, recording 30 points (on 12-of-21 shooting), alongside two rebounds, two assists, two steals, six 3-pointers, and a +30 plus-minus on December 26, 2024. · Dec 27, 2024