The Memphis Grizzlies decided to part ways with Dillon Brooks during the offseason.
Contrary to popular belief, this decision was primarily driven by Brooks’ desire for a more prominent role on offense rather than any off-court issues.
As part of a sign-and-trade deal, the Houston Rockets acquired Brooks for a four-year contract worth $80 million.
Tim MacMahon, speaking on The Lowe Post, explained that the reasons behind the Grizzlies’ decision are often misunderstood. While there may have been some cultural issues, the main motivation to replace Brooks stemmed from his questionable shot selection.
“I think the reasons the Grizzlies were ready to move on from him are misunderstood,” said Tim MacMahon on The Lowe Post. “The nonsense was kind of like at a point where culturally it was time. That was not the primary reason. The primary reason the Grizzlies were trying to replace Dillon Brooks for a full two years, repeatedly going after players that would have replaced him in the trade market, and he probably would have been sent out, was because of the shot selection issue. Dillon did not want to be a fourth or fifth offensive weapon.”
Over the course of two years, the Grizzlies actively pursued trade options to find a player who could replace Brooks in this aspect. Brooks expressed unwillingness to be a fourth or fifth offensive weapon for the team.
During this period, the Grizzlies were rumored to be interested in trading for wings like OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges. Additionally, MacMahon mentioned that Ime Udoka, who is now with the Houston Rockets, valued Brooks and played a significant role in his acquisition.
“Ime Udoka wanted him,” added MacMahon. “He valued him. He’s in Houston a large part because of that. It’s on Ime Udoka to deal with that stuff and get the best version of Dillon Brooks that also creates the best possible scenarios for these young guys to grow.”
Udoka will have the responsibility of managing these issues and getting the best performance out of Brooks, while also creating optimal opportunities for the team’s young players to develop.
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