Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, and the Chemistry Fueling the Suns’ Season
Devin Booker didn’t walk away with the 3-point contest trophy at All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles, but he brought something else to the table - a level of engagement and competitive fire that reminded everyone why he’s one of the league’s most respected stars. While the dunk contest left plenty to be desired, Booker’s performance and presence were a bright spot, both on the court and behind the mic.
And when he spoke about playing alongside Dillon Brooks this season, it was more than just a soundbite - it was a glimpse into the inner workings of a Suns team that’s quietly finding its rhythm.
“He’s a hell of a hooper”
Booker didn’t hold back when asked about Brooks during All-Star media availability. He praised the Canadian wing not just for his on-court grit, but for the way he’s embraced the team-first mentality in Phoenix.
“Dillon is a hard worker, man. He's easily someone to rally behind.
He's a fierce competitor, and I wouldn't want it any other way,” Booker said. “I'd rather him be too competitive than it be the other way around.”
That’s high praise from a player who understands what it takes to win in this league. Booker has never been the loudest voice in the room, but when he speaks, it carries weight - especially when he’s going out of his way to uplift a teammate like Brooks.
“It’s been a pleasure playing with him. We’ve enjoyed it.
Still have a lot of work to do, but our chemistry has grown,” Booker continued. “He is who he is, and we love him for it.
He’s a hell of a hooper, which a lot of people don’t talk about. I enjoy being his teammate.”
That last line says a lot. Booker isn’t just giving a politically correct answer - he’s making it clear that Brooks is more than just a defensive pest or an emotional spark plug. He’s a real contributor, and someone Booker genuinely enjoys sharing the floor with.
Mutual Respect Driving the Suns Forward
What’s notable here is that the respect goes both ways. When Brooks was gaining traction as a potential All-Star candidate himself, he didn’t take the bait. Instead, he used the moment to spotlight Booker as the most deserving Sun to make the roster.
That kind of humility and team-first mindset has been a big part of why Brooks has fit in so seamlessly in Phoenix. He’s brought an edge, sure - but he’s also brought maturity.
Earlier this season, he acknowledged the trade that sent him to the Suns in exchange for Kevin Durant and showed an understanding of the bigger picture. That self-awareness, paired with his competitive fire, has made him a surprisingly steady presence in the locker room.
And as the Suns sit at 32-23 heading into the second half of the season, that chemistry between Brooks and Booker is starting to look like a real asset. They’ve become the emotional and strategic engine of a team that’s quietly climbing the Western Conference standings.
No Drama, Just Basketball
Part of what makes this partnership work is how little drama surrounds it. Brooks, often painted as a provocateur in past stops, has kept his head down and focused on basketball.
He’s not chasing headlines on social media. He’s not clapping back at critics.
And that’s resonated in Phoenix - a city that’s seen its fair share of star players come and go.
The comparison to former teammates is inevitable, but what’s clear is that Booker looks more relaxed, more energized, and more connected with this group. He doesn’t need to force leadership - it comes naturally. And when he publicly lifts up a teammate like Brooks, it sets the tone for the entire roster.
Looking Ahead
There’s still work to be done - both Booker and Brooks would be the first to say that. But their growing connection is one of the most encouraging storylines for a Suns team trying to make noise in a crowded West.
They’re not the flashiest duo. They’re not the loudest. But they’re building something real - and that might be exactly what Phoenix needs.