5 bold predictions for the Memphis Grizzlies free agent class of 2023

No 2. Dillon Brooks won’t be on the Memphis Grizzlies roster in 2023

Dillon Brooks is set to be an unrestricted free agent after the 2022-23 season. It’s really tough to predict what will happen without seeing if he’s 1) healthy in 2022-23 and 2) becomes more selective with his jump shot on offense.

Brooks is an important part of the team and arguably the best on-ball defender currently on the roster. But, his errant shot selection and inconsistency was much maligned by Grizzlies fans during the 2022 NBA Playoffs.

Dillon Brooks will turn 27 in the middle of the upcoming season, making him one of the elder statesmen on a team full of players in their early 20s.

The former Oregon product is at an important crossroads with the franchise: adapt or move on. If Brooks can refine his role into more of a 3-and-D type player and defer much of the scoring load to Morant, Bane and Jackson, there’s absolutely a role on this team for Brooks.

However, if he’s unsatisfied with that role and/or wants to be a bigger part of the offense, then it may be time to explore other options for the young veteran.

The Grizzlies have insulated themselves in case Dillon Brooks chooses a path in which he becomes an unrestricted free agent in 20223 by drafting David Roddy and Jake LaRavia— players that could potentially fill the void of a departed Brooks. Not to mention Ziaire Williams, who could also fill that void.

I think Brooks will do what he needs to do to rebuild his on-court image and increase his earning potential in the open market. If things go the way Brooks wants (playing really well in 2022-23), he may price the Grizzlies out of retaining him beyond this season.

I think the Grizzlies will open up talks with Brooks and his camp this summer. They’ll get an idea of what he desires as far as a contract. If the asking price is too high, maybe the team looks to deal him before the 2022-23 NBA trade deadline.