Memphis Grizzlies Summer League Review: Dillon Brooks
The Memphis Grizzlies’ Summer League has ended, as they went on an impressive 5-1 run. How did rookie Dillon Brooks play in this two-week span?
Going into the Summer League, Dillon Brooks was an intriguing prospect. Even though he dropped into the second round, the man can ball out. He was the PAC-12 Player of the Year for a reason.
Brooks showed an uncanny ability to deliver in crunch-time, to score in just about any way on the court and make the right decisions. In addition, he plays with a passion reminiscent to the “Grindfather” Tony Allen. In the Summer League, he was probably the most impressive, polished player on the Memphis Grizzlies – behind Wayne Selden.
Even in the Summer League, Brooks played with passion that was unmatched and infectious. He made the right play on offense, hustled on defense and carried the team on his back when they needed a leader.
Brooks’ defense was surprisingly solid. He averaged 1.5 steals a game, generating most of them from disrupting the passing lines to ignite the fast break.
On the offensive end, he took care of the ball and made the right plays. Brooks averaged 12.2 points on 46.6 percent shooting from the field, 3.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists. He debunked his “lack of athleticism” with his offensive play. He threw in put-back dunks, finished well at the rim and pulled up from mid-range without any problems. If he can find multiple ways to get buckets in the NBA, he’ll have a spot in the rotation soon.
One thing Brooks did in the Summer League that will translate to the NBA is his willingness to play a role. If his shots weren’t falling, he was playing hard-nosed defense and setting up his teammates. However, when he was on, he demanded the basketball and dropped buckets.
When he’s on the court with guys like Conley and Gasol, that play should transfer over. He doesn’t need the ball to be effective, and he truly proved that in the Summer League.
Next: Grizz officially sign Brooks
Looking Ahead
Dillon Brooks and Wayne Selden seemed like the only players ready for big-boy minutes. Selden will surely have a rotation spot going into training camp, but Brooks could play the part of the “mid-season surprise.” He plays beyond his years and could eventually push guys like Troy Daniels and James Ennis out of the rotation.
Brooks has the scoring ability and overall tenacity to thrive in this league. The Memphis Grizzlies can’t mess this one up.