Dillon Brooks has never been one to shy away from the spotlight-whether it’s his physical edge on the court or his animated presence on the bench, he knows how to command attention. But on Tuesday night, Brooks let his game do the talking. In the Phoenix Suns’ 132-108 statement win over the Los Angeles Lakers, it was Brooks-not LeBron James-who led all scorers, dropping an efficient 25 points on 66.7% shooting from the field.
This wasn’t just a hot shooting night-it was a performance that turned heads, including those of NBA royalty. Lakers legend James Worthy didn’t hold back after the game, drawing a bold comparison between Brooks’ mid-range touch and the legendary footwork of Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. That’s not a name-drop you hear lightly-especially when it comes from someone who’s seen greatness up close.
Brooks’ offensive game was a showcase in versatility. He hit a smooth mid-range jumper-the kind of shot that defined the careers of MJ and Kobe-and added three makes from deep. The rest of his buckets came at the rim, where he showed off the kind of physicality and confidence that’s become his calling card.
It’s worth noting just how different Brooks’ role looked in this game compared to his December averages of 3.3 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. Against the Lakers, the Suns clearly gave him the green light to focus on one thing: putting the ball in the basket. And he delivered.
Devin Booker, who knows a thing or two about scoring in bunches, was quick to praise his teammate’s performance.
“I think he's gotten better,” Booker said postgame. “He’s put the work in.
He wasn’t just good-he would score, but it wouldn’t be that efficient. Now you can see the work, and the work has brought the confidence with it.”
Booker even likened Brooks’ scoring outburst to vintage J.R. Smith-a nod to the kind of microwave scoring that can swing a game in just a few possessions.
“That's what we want him to do out there,” Booker added. “Maybe a few more rebounds, but we're not expecting him to pass.”
That last line? Pure honesty from a teammate who understands Brooks’ role in this Suns offense. He’s not out there to rack up assists-he’s there to put pressure on the defense and keep opposing wings honest.
This 25-point night wasn’t just a flash in the pan either. It marked Brooks’ highest scoring effort since he dropped 27-also against the Lakers-earlier this month in another Suns win.
And if there’s one team Brooks seems to enjoy playing against, it’s the Purple & Gold. Over 24 career games against L.A., he’s now averaging 13.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists.
For a player who’s often in the headlines for his defensive intensity or off-court antics, this game was a reminder: Dillon Brooks can hoop. And when he’s locked in like this, he’s not just a disruptor-he’s a difference-maker.