It only took one game for Dillon Brooks to make this major statement

It’s only been one preseason game so far, but the new-look Phoenix Suns have fans excited. They blew out the Lakers 103-81 on Friday and showed great hustle on defense. As a leader on that end, new addition Dillon Brooks is already showing that he’s exactly what the Suns need.

Dillon Brooks brings defense and toughness to Phoenix

Brooks led the charge on defense with his tenacious play and communication as a leader. Personally, he had just one steal but he spearheaded an impressive effort from the Suns starters.

Each member of the starting lineup had at least one steal or one block, an impressive stat in three quarters of play for them. Brooks’ example and reputation as a dogged defender have helped the team embrace a newfound identity on that end of the court. Compared to last season, the whole team seemed better connected on defense and had consistent effort across all five players.

The Suns arguably have better all-around defensive personnel this season with other new additions such as Brooks and incoming rookie Khaman Maluach. It’s a huge focus of improvement for them after having the fourth worst defensive rating in the league last season. 

Brooks’ example as a defender is also particularly important because he’s not the most physically talented defender but he makes up for it with his sheer effort. Even in this preseason game, we saw him diving on the floor for loose balls and giving effort like it’s a playoff game.

For other guys on the roster who don’t see themselves as elite athletes or good defenders, Brooks will be a great reminder to always give your all on defense - which can oftentimes have even better results than being physically dominant but lapsing in effort.

Brooks also played a perfect offensive role in this preseason game. He has always been at his best throughout his NBA career when he plays his given role well and doesn’t try to overstep his bounds. In this game, we saw him happily serve as a spot-up shooter on offense, and it helped the team overall.

He finished the game 3/4 from three point range, and started 3/3. These shots were taken in the flow of the offense off kickout passes from Devin Booker. Brooks’ quick release caught the defense off guard and allowed him to get his shots off with clean looks even when a defender was in the vicinity.

Dillon Brooks can be a great player for the Suns if he plays his role correctly. He has to be a leader on defense who can inspire the whole Phoenix unit, and an efficient 3-point shooter on offense. So far, he’s proving to be exactly what the Suns were hoping for.