Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green is making the most of the NBA offseason by training with reigning MVP Nikola Jokić. The 22-year-old Rockets star has been working out with the Denver Nuggets center in a bid to elevate his game ahead of the 2026-27 season. Green, who averaged 25.1 points per game last season, is looking to build on his impressive campaign and help the Rockets return to playoff contention. Last result: Houston Rockets 78-98 Los Angeles Lakers (2026-05-02).
What happened?
Jalen Green has been training with Nikola Jokić, the two-time NBA MVP, during the offseason. The Rockets guard has been focusing on improving his playmaking and shooting, with Jokić providing guidance on reading defenses and making better decisions with the ball. Green has also been working on his conditioning and strength, aiming to become a more complete player. The Rockets finished the 2025-26 season with a 3W-0D-2L record in their last five games (LLWWW, most recent first), losing the last two.
Why it matters for Houston Rockets
The Rockets are looking to bounce back after a disappointing season. Green's offseason training with Jokić could be a significant step in that direction. The Rockets' young core, including Green and Jabari Smith Jr., has shown promise, but consistency has been an issue. With Green improving his all-around game, the Rockets could take a step forward in the competitive Western Conference. The team's recent form suggests they need to address their defensive issues, and Green's development could be key.
What comes next?
The Rockets will be looking to build on their offseason work as they prepare for the 2026-27 season. Green's training with Jokić could pay dividends, but the Rockets will also need to address other areas of their roster. The team's front office is expected to be active in free agency, looking to add experienced players who can help the young core develop. Fans can keep track of the Rockets' progress on our [squad](/squad) and [stats](/stats) pages.
