Memphis Grizzlies: 3 best performances in win over Spurs

Memphis Grizzlies G/F Dillon Brooks had another strong defensive game

Dillon Brooks had an explosive 24 points against the Spurs, and it could not be ignored any longer how elite his defense is. Brooks was a huge reason the Grizzlies got off to the hot start they did in the first quarter. The fast-break dunk that made him take flight lit up the Grizzlies for the rest of the quarter.

Brooks showed off his unique ability to hit contested jumpers time and time again, even in the clutch. Let’s not forget the seven rebounds he had as well. On a night that seemed like Valanciunas was snagging everything, the 6’7″ guard was able to pull down his own share.

Defensively, Brooks was on another level. We talked earlier about Valanciunas pick and roll defense, and his ability to drop back into coverage easily, much of that had to do with how well Brooks was playing on the ball.

When you talk about pick-and-roll defense and defending the ball, Dillon Brooks does it with the best of them. His ability to get over screens is unmatched, along with the skill of contesting jump shots at a high clip.

DeMar DeRozen was 5-21 Wednesday night. Most of that was due to the elite defense Dillon Brooks was showing all night. Let’s also factor in the two steals and block Brooks had, and go ahead and give him all-defensive team honors now.