Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks was a polarizing figure in the NBA during the 22-23 NBA Playoffs, making headlines with his on-court antics and feuds. With Brooks’ contract expiring, the Grizzlies seem less inclined to re-sign him, and his value is dropping in other markets as well. It’s time to examine why the Memphis organization wouldn’t consider Brooks a top target during the upcoming recession.
In the 2023 NBA Playoffs, LeBron Brooks called out James for being too old and was ejected for slapping James during the first round against the Los Angeles Lakers. Although the Grizzlies held the second-best record in the Western Conference during the regular season, they fell in six games to the 7-ranked Lakers. Brooks’ lackluster performance in the playoffs certainly didn’t help. He only shot 28% from the field over the last four games of the series. This comes after Brooks only shot 35% from the field in the postseason for Memphis last year, making his struggles on the field a major factor in the Grizzlies’ woes.
Off the field, Brooks’ reputation also suffered. NBA insider Mark Stein reports that there has been growing widespread skepticism about the Grizzlies’ willingness to re-sign Brooks as he heads to free agency. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon also highlighted Brooks’ reputation among NBA players, stating that he is seen as a borderline dirty player. This unfavorable reputation, along with his struggles on the field, prompted the Grizzlies to explore other options.
As a former Special Adviser I’ve seen my fair share of egos fly around but this is way over the top. Brooks is simply hurting his stock in the league at this point.
Memphis has pushed out the NBA trade deadline for Brooklyn Nets forward Michal Bridges and OG Anunoby from the Toronto Raptors, showing the front office is looking for an upgrade. Brooks’ antics and reputation on the court relegated not only the Memphis organization but also to other NBA markets, making it difficult for him to land a lucrative contract in free agency.
Since the NBA is more entertainment than basketball (this is my own opinion expressed), fans and organizations alike are weary of Brooks’ behavior. His antics overshadowed his talents as a high-ranking defender, lessening his overall appeal. According to TalkBasket, the Grizzlies are not expected to re-sign Dillon Brooks (https://www.talkbasket.net/164767-grizzlies-not-icted-to-re-sign-dillon-brooks).
In conclusion, Dillon Brooks’ on-court antics and deteriorating performance jeopardized his future with the Memphis Grizzlies. Since the NBA is more about entertainment than basketball, players like Brooks who engage in inappropriate behavior will find their value plummeted not only in Memphis but also in other markets. It remains to be seen if Brooks can recover and find success in the NBA, but for now, his showman performance is on the wane.