Kenny Smith is no stranger to Charles Barkley and his reactions to his takes. Smith is often criticized for some of his takes on Inside The NBA, as he tends to embellish or overdo it often. Barkley, who is often over-the-top himself, usually comes with a hilarious reaction.
As the Golden State Warriors defeated the Memphis Grizzlies in the play-in game to make the playoffs as the seventh seed, the stage became set for their clash with the second seed Houston Rockets.
While many point to the Rockets’ youth and defense as a key factor in their chances to defeat the Warriors, there are some who feel that the intangible for their success relies on one of their younger players.
Kenny Smith Compares Jalen Green To Jaylen Brown
During the recent episode of Inside The NBA, Kenny Smith made a peculiar comparison when discussing the upcoming Rockets vs. Warriors series. He felt that the deciding factor in the series could be Jalen Green, comparing him to Celtics star Jaylen Brown, and he decided to explain why he felt that way, much to Charles Barkley’s surprise.
“Oh my god” 💀
Chuck wasn’t feeling Kenny’s Jalen Green-Jaylen Brown comp 😅 pic.twitter.com/X7ioYBgOlB
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) April 16, 2025
“This will be the series that Ime Udoka changes Jalen Green into what he did with Jaylen Brown, helping him out, getting him to that next level and being more consistent.”
“Jalen Green is a guy who will get 30 points one night, and then 9 points the next. I think this will be the series that he will be consistent and that will take the Rockets over the top.”
Barkley’s reaction said it all. While the Rockets need consistent play from Jalen Green, it is obvious he still has a long way to go as a leading star. Could Green take a leap during this playoffs run? Absolutely, but that’s dependent on his focus going forward.
Can The Rockets Defeat The Warriors?
The Rockets have a tall task of trying to dispose of the Golden State Warriors with the legendary Stephen Curry and new teammate Jimmy Butler leading the charge. This will be a tall task as the Warriors have been surging, but in their last battle, the Rockets won 106-96.
Still, the Warriors have championship level experience, Curry, and Butler, which could lead them beyond Houston. Houston will have to rely heavily on Amen Thompson as their defensive anchor and Jalen Green to help bolster their offense.
Will the Rockets defeat the old guard in the Warriors? Or will the Warriors find new life as Butler continues to get comfortable with his team? The playoffs start soon, and all those questions will be answered.
- Source: NEWHD MEDIA
