Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks has been a polarizing figure in the NBA during the 22-23 NBA playoffs, making headlines with his on-court antics and controversies. 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 is no longer considering Brooks a prime target during the upcoming off-season.
In the 2023 NBA Playoffs, Brooks called out LeBron James as old and was ejected for a swipe at James during the first round against the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite the Grizzlies holding the second-best record in the Western Conference during the regular season, they fell in six games to the No. 7-seed Lakers. Brooks’ lackluster performance in the playoffs certainly didn’t help; he shot a mere 28% from the field over the final four games of the series. This comes after Brooks shot just 35% from the field in Memphis’ postseason run last year, making his struggles on the court a major factor in the Grizzlies’ playoff troubles.
Off the court, Brooks’ reputation has taken a hit as well. NBA insider Marc Stein reported growing doubt leaguewide about the Grizzlies’ appetite to re-sign Brooks as he heads to free agency. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon also shed light on Brooks’ reputation among NBA players, stating that he’s seen as a borderline dirty player. This unfavorable reputation, combined with his on-court struggles, has led the Grizzlies to explore other options.
As a former special advisor, I have seen my fair share of the egos flying around but this goes beyond the scope. Brooks is simply harming his own stock in the league at this point.
Memphis made NBA trade deadline pushes for Brooklyn Nets forward Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby of the Toronto Raptors, showing that the front office is looking for an upgrade. Brooks’ on-court antics and reputation have put off not only the Memphis organization but also other NBA markets, making it harder for him to secure a lucrative contract in free agency.
As the NBA is more entertainment than basketball (this is my own opinion I am voicing), fans and organizations alike are growing weary of Brooks’ behavior. His antics overshadow his talents as a top-end perimeter defender, reducing his overall appeal. According to TalkBasket, the Grizzlies are not expected to re-sign Dillon Brooks (https://www.talkbasket.net/164767-grizzlies-not-expected-to-re-sign-dillon-brooks).
In conclusion, Dillon Brooks’ on-court antics and declining performance have put his future with the Memphis Grizzlies in jeopardy. As the NBA is more about entertainment than basketball, players like Brooks who engage in off-putting behavior will find their value dropping not only in Memphis but also in other markets. It remains to be seen whether Brooks can bounce back and find success in the NBA, but for now, his showman’s act is falling flat.
