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Dillon Brooks fires veiled shot at Grizzlies

Houston Rockets forward Dillon Brooks Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Dillon Brooks fires veiled shot at the Memphis Grizzlies

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 11/16/23

Dillon Brooks left the Memphis Grizzlies over the summer. The Western Conference franchise decided not to offer the veteran a contract extension. Brooks had been with the Grizzlies since the franchise drafted him in 2017. During his tenure in Memphis, he had become a locker room leader and a focal point on both ends of the court.

When speaking to Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix , Brooks noted how he is happy with his new situation with the Houston Rockets. However, he also shared his belief that Memphis' overall system worked better when he was a focal point of head coach Taylor Jenkins' system.

“The whole season was not what I wanted," Brooks said. "I feel like we did better when I was a focal point in that organization. They chose a different route. But I’m happy that through all the (stuff) I was able to get what I always deserved.”

THE VILLAIN!
“It prepared me for what I’m about to be this season,” says Brooks. “Taking my game to a new level, my body, my mind to a new level. Cutting out the bulls--- and just hooping. I’ve got a team that wants me, that wants me to help them grow.”https://t.co/KOxyzizmoW
— Chris A. White (@fyrebear) November 16, 2023

Brooks has been an important addition to the Rockets. His veteran leadership and willingness to embrace physicality have meshed well with Ime Udoka's coaching style. Brooks is emerging as a star for his new team, helping to instill a fresh mindset with the franchise's young roster and leading by example. However, his on-court antics will continue to ruffle feathers, which will make it hard for him to shed his label as a villain in the NBA.

It's that reputation that likely played a part in Brooks' departure from Memphis. He received significant criticism for goading Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James during the 2023 postseason when he claimed that he "poked bears." That's who Brooks is, though. He's an agitator. He plays mind games. And he protects his teammates in the process.

Houston needed a player like that. Memphis didn't. That's why the Rockets extended a four-year $86 million contract to the veteran forward during the offseason, as they looked to expedite a rebuild that had been ongoing since James Harden left the franchise in 2021. Brooks is repaying the Rockets' faith with averages of 13.7 points, 4.2 rebounds and two assists while shooting 55.1% from the field and 53.3% from three-point range. Brooks may never be an All-Star, but his impact is undeniable.

Brooks understandably has a chip on his shoulder this season. He's playing with a purpose and making his presence felt, which has been earning some praise from the media and fans alike. Houston should benefit from Brooks' motivation as they continue to work toward a playoff spot. The Grizzlies, who have started the season with a 2-9 record, are likely watching on with envious eyes.

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