The Grizzlies’ Defender Makes His Case
Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks, long recognized as one of the NBA’s premier perimeter defenders, has entered the All-Star conversation with a blend of self-assurance and team-first humility. When asked if he believes he’s performing at an All-Star level this season, Brooks didn’t hesitate.
“Yeah, I feel like I’m playing at that level,” Brooks stated. However, he quickly pivoted the spotlight, adding a crucial qualifier that defines his approach: “Ultimately, I’m not gonna beg for it. If it comes, it comes. But our real All-Star is (Devin Booker).”
A Season of Elevated Two-Way Impact
Brooks’ confidence is backed by a career-best season that has expanded beyond his defensive reputation. While remaining the heart of the Grizzlies’ gritty defensive identity,
Offensive Leap:
- Scoring Surge: Averaging a career-high 18.7 points per game, up significantly from previous seasons.
- Efficient Shooting: Posting a 46.2% field goal percentage, his most efficient mark since his rookie year, while maintaining a high volume of attempts.
- Playmaking Growth: Showing improved decision-making with increased assist numbers, facilitating within the Grizzlies’ offensive flow.
Defensive Anchor:
- Brooks continues to be tasked with shutting down the opposing team’s best perimeter player night after night. His physical, relentless style sets the tone for one of the league’s top defensive units.
The Ultimate Team-First Mentality
Despite his personal improvements, Brooks’ immediate deflection of praise to teammate Devin Booker is telling. Booker, the Phoenix Suns’ superstar, is a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate known for his elite scoring. By calling Booker the “real All-Star,” Brooks accomplishes two things:
- Shows Respect: He acknowledges the established, top-tier talent in the league, demonstrating an understanding of the hierarchy and the consistent excellence required to be a mainstay in the All-Star game.
- Emphasizes Winning: His comment underscores that individual accolades are secondary to team success and respect within the league. It’s a nod to the fact that recognition comes from contributing to a winning culture, a hallmark of the Grizzlies’ identity.
This mentality aligns perfectly with the “Grit and Grind” ethos that Brooks embodies. It’s not about self-promotion; it’s about doing the tough, often unheralded work that leads to victories.
The All Star Verdict
Dillon Brooks has undoubtedly forced his name into the All-Star discussion through sheer performance. He is the embodiment of a two-way player, impacting the game with equal ferocity on both ends of the floor.
Whether he receives the All-Star nod this year or not, his stance is clear: he believes he belongs in that conversation, but he won’t campaign for it. His focus remains on winning,