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Memphis Grizzlies: A look at Dillon Brooks’ impact and what’s to come

By Aymin Bakr

MEMPHIS, TN - OCTOBER 27: Dillon Brooks #24 of the Memphis Grizzlies handles the ball against the Phoenix Suns on October 27, 2018 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TN - OCTOBER 27: Dillon Brooks #24 of the Memphis Grizzlies handles the ball against the Phoenix Suns on October 27, 2018 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2017-18 success

A mid second-rounder rarely ever sees the court in his rookie season as much as the 22-year-old out of Oregon did last season. The 6’6″ forward managed to compete in all 82 games — the only rookie last season to do so — and played an average of 28.8 minutes per contest. He also started in 74 games despite coming off the bench early on.

In those 82 games, Brooks managed a relatively moderate stat line of 11.0 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists a night on 44.0 percent shooting from the field and 35.6 percent shooting from beyond the arc. Beyond the surface, however, things were a lot more impressive.

Although he wasn’t expected to be much more than a semi-consistent contributor offensively, Brooks managed to record 15 or more points in 21 games and averaged an eye-catching 14.8 points on 43.4 percent shooting from the field and 34.7 percent shooting from behind the 3-point line for the entire month of March (16 games).

Furthermore, the 22-year-old erupted for a career-high 36 points against the Oklahoma City Thunder and was often the team’s leading scorer when hot — especially after Tyreke Evans got injured.

Not only was he able to find success in a multitude of different lineups offensively, but he was often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best offensive talent. His combination of length and quick feet often proved fairly effective on that front.

While he definitely didn’t have a Rookie of the Year type season, Brooks did a lot of things that went unnoticed by casual NBA fans. Whether it be Mike Conley, Tyreke Evans, Chandler Parsons or Andrew Harrison, injuries or lackluster player at certain positions affected last year’s Grizzlies big time, and Brooks filled in in virtually all facets of the game.

He showcased his ability to score, defend some high-level offensive talents and even distribute the ball from time to time.

After the departure of the aforementioned Evans, it seemed as though Brooks would potentially play an even bigger role this season. Unfortunately, the Grizzlies acquired quite a few wings this offseason and injuries seem to get the best of everyone.

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