The Memphis Grizzlies chose not to attempt to retain Dillon Brooks in free agency during the 2023 offseason, with front office concerns about his impact on younger players playing a significant role in the decision, according to sources. The organization believed Brooks’ persistent trash talk and provocative behavior had become detrimental to the team’s developing core.
Brooks, selected in the second round of the 2017 draft, had evolved into a leader during Memphis’ ascent as a competitive force. However, he ultimately became representative of a confident squad that failed to support its brash rhetoric with consistent performance.
The 29-year-old wing signed a four-year, $86 million contract with the Houston Rockets following his departure from Memphis. That decision came after a tumultuous conclusion to his six-year tenure with the Grizzlies, which included a controversial first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Brooks has since flourished with the Phoenix Suns after being acquired in the Kevin Durant trade this past summer. He is averaging 21.3 points per game, the highest mark of his nine-year career, while helping Phoenix to a 24-16 record.
“I think there was just no trust overall between the top and bottom, players and front office,” Brooks told ESPN. “I just felt like I got the short end of the stick, but it motivated me to be better.”
The Grizzlies have struggled since Brooks’ departure, missing the playoffs in consecutive seasons. Meanwhile, Brooks has established himself as a cornerstone of Phoenix’s cultural transformation under owner Mat Ishbia.