Houston Rockets: 3 takeaways from Game 2 vs. Timberwolves

3. Gerald Green finds his stroke from long range

Just four and a half months ago, Gerald Green found himself shooting nonstop in his driveway, seeking to stay fresh after receiving news that he was cut by the Milwaukee Bucks prior to the start of the 2017-18 regular season.

Now, all of Green’s hard work appears to have fully paid off, as the 32-year-old swingman proved to be arguably one of the biggest difference-makers on the floor for the Rockets in Game 2.

On a night where Houston was in desperate search of instant offense, the former Slam Dunk Contest champion came into the game to a standing ovation and managed to step up mightily.

During the second quarter, Green scored 12 points on 4-for-7 shooting from the field, knocking down several triples to help lead a 17-7 Rockets run in the second quarter. While also hauling in seven rebounds in the first half, the Houston native found his stroke from long range and put together one of his finest performances on the big stage in front of family and friends.

https://twitter.com/HoustonRockets/status/986799664832962565

In Game 2, Green posted the first playoff double-double of his career, scoring 21 points to go alongside of 12 rebounds in 26 minutes of action.

"“I’m very proud,”  Green said in his postgame press conference alongside Harden. “Any time I step onto that court, I’m proud. I hope I make the city proud…I have a lot more things that I want to do for the city, and that’s bring a championship.” “We still have a long journey ahead of us.”"

Although no one knew exactly how many minutes Green might see in the postseason, the once unemployed journeyman has proven to be a perfect fit in Houston’s offensive attack all year long. The former Gulf Shores Academy standout appears to have officially cemented his spot in Mike D’Antoni’s playoff rotation with his latest showing.