PHOENIX — It’s nights like these that leave Jeff Green’s biggest detractors at a loss for words. He uses his large hands to palm the ball, while determining his next move like an artist pondering the next stroke. He has an improving jumper with a high, unorthodox release, and his dunks are vicious, like a one-handed hammer.

With Kevin Garnett getting a much-needed night off and the Celtics desperately needing a win in their most winnable game of this five-game trip, Green delivered his best performance as a Celtic, tallying 31 points in 39 minutes with 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 5 blocked shots.