Dillon Brooks Transforms Suns in First Season
Phoenix has witnessed a remarkable transformation this season, largely thanks to Dillon Brooks. The forward has emerged as a key player for the Suns, showcasing a significant improvement in his game and helping to mold a new team identity. Averaging a career-high 22.3 points per game with an impressive 45.9% shooting from the field, Brooks has quickly become the second-highest scorer on the team. His contributions have been pivotal in leading Phoenix to a respectable 13-10 start, even amidst a wave of injuries and low expectations heading into the season.
A Culture Changer
Brooks arrived in Phoenix as a central figure in the trade that sent Kevin Durant to the Suns, and his reputation as a culture changer precedes him. Having previously revitalized the Memphis Grizzlies and the Houston Rockets, the Suns were well aware of the impact he could bring. Mat Ishbia, the Suns’ owner, emphasized the need for a new identity following a disappointing two-year stretch. Brooks has proven to be the perfect fit for this mission.
Durant’s Praise for Brooks
In a recent game against the Rockets, Brooks returned to Houston and was met with a warm reception, highlighted by an emotional tribute video. He finished the night with 23 points, four rebounds, and four assists. However, without Devin Booker, sidelined due to a groin strain, the Suns fell short, losing 117-98. After the game, Kevin Durant took a moment to commend Brooks for his impactful presence in Phoenix and his previous contributions in Houston.
“You can see his impact over there in Phoenix,” Durant remarked. “He’s playing aggressive. He’s commanding the group. Guys are listening to him. He’s pretty much stepped up and become a leader over there.”
Durant noted the budding partnership between Brooks and Booker, highlighting their roles as vocal leaders for the team. “He’s getting better as a player and more confident as a player, and it probably started from here (in Houston),” Durant added.
Brooks’ Influence on Team Dynamics
Brooks’ journey with the Rockets was marked by a dramatic turnaround. After joining the team, they transformed from a 22-win squad to a competitive 41-41 record in his first season. The following year, the Rockets achieved a remarkable 52-30 record, securing the No. 2 seed in a challenging Western Conference. Durant acknowledged Brooks’ role in this evolution, stating, “I think Dillon impacts a young team, a team that’s trying to go from being disrespected throughout the year to a respected group.”
While Durant recognized that Brooks wasn’t the sole reason for the Rockets’ success, he firmly believed that Brooks was an essential component of their progress. “It was a real group effort to get the Houston Rockets to where they were the last couple years… Dillon was definitely a piece,” Durant reflected.
Next for the Suns
As the Suns prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night, all eyes will be on Brooks and how he continues to shape the team’s identity. His journey in Phoenix is just beginning, and the potential for further growth remains high as he settles into his pivotal role.
