Things didn’t go as planned for the Memphis Grizzlies during their first-round NBA playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers. They were eliminated in six games, putting a sour note on what was a very successful regular season.
A big reason for their defeat was the performance of starting forward Dillon Brooks. Had Brooks spent more time focusing on his game than talking in the media and taking shots at his opponents, things may have turned out differently for the Grizzlies.
It is easy to imagine the Lakers had a fire lit under them by all of the trash-talking that Brooks did. He could not resist poking at LeBron James, as he called him old after Memphis won Game 2 of the series. He also said that he doesn’t respect anyone until they score 40 points on him, which was all bulletin board material for the Lakers.
“Old” James did more in this series than Brooks has in his playoff career, helping his Lakers move on despite being the No. 7 seed. Even after the series, the Oregon product wouldn’t back down, as he has no regrets about anything he said.
NBA NEWS & PLAYOFFS: LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers, Dillon Brooks & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
“No, that’s who I am,” Brooks said, according to the Memphis Commercial Appeal. “I don’t regret it. I’m a competitor. I compete.”
That kind of attitude likely played a part in why Brooks will not be returning to the Grizzlies. The impending free agent was informed that he will not be returning to Memphis under any circumstances as it was discussed during his exit interview that a fresh start was best for both sides.
It is easy to see where the organization is coming from. Brooks was a huge liability for them in the postseason, as he made only 31.2 percent of his shots and 23.8 percent of his 3-point attempts. His inability to put the ball in the bucket enabled the Lakers to blitz Ja Morant and Desmond Bane with extra attention as Los Angeles dared Brooks to shoot the ball and he couldn’t hurt them.
NBA NEWS & PLAYOFFS: LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers, Dillon Brooks & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Seemingly stuck in his ways, it will be interesting to see what kind of market develops for Brooks. While he is an excellent defender, the rest of his game leaves a lot to be desired. His personality would also be a tough fit in some locker rooms as wore out his welcome in Memphis.
Want the latest in NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here.
