Rockets sadly have to quit one mainstay before next season

For the last 3 years, Jeff Green has been a constant presence on the Rockets bench and in the locker room. He brought a veteran presence like few others could, but now it's finally time for the Rockets to move on. Now that the Rockets have pulled off a successful trade for Kevin Durant and shifted focus to title contention, they don't need Green around to guide youngsters anymore.

Jeff Green's time in Houston has come and gone

Green was beloved in Space City not only for his veteran leadership, but also the occasional dazzling displays of athleticism. Last season, he turned 39 but still miraculously threw down some poster dunks. Over the course of his long career, Green mastered the art of adapting to whatever role his team needed while still preserving his own unique style. That important lesson helped him avoid ever flaming out over the past 19 years, even when he missed an entire season with a heart condition.

But the Rockets don't have a spot available for Green to take up anymore. After a second straight first-round exit, Houston is more focused on developing its younger talent or adding veterans who can contribute more on the court. As beloved as Green was, he only managed an average of 31 games played per season in the last two years - and less than 10 minutes per game in those outings.

His veteran teachings should have passed on to his young mentees after three years with the Rockets. Players like Amen Thompson, Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr in particular should have learned a lot from Green. With his time on 11 different teams and even more different roles, Green has tons of knowledge that developing wings will find useful.

The Rockets have lots of love for Green's contributions

Since Green first came to Houston, the Rockets have completely transformed as a team. They went from being bottom feeders in the West to having deep playoff aspirations and even some fans hoping for a title shot. Trading for Durant was proof enough that the Rockets rebuild is complete, but moving on from Green might be an even bigger sign.

He helped instill a culture of strong defense and selfless play in Houston, along with coach Ime Udoka. The current core identity of the Rockets as a tough team willing to outwork their opponents may have never developed if it wasn't for Green. That alone deserves a round of applause, not to mention his awe-inspiring elder statesmen highlights in the same time frame.

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