Dillon Brooks. Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images.
The Memphis Grizzlies have informed Dillon Brooks that they will not bring back the small forward when he enters free agency, The Athletic reports.
Brooks became a controversial figure in the postseason for his comments targeting LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers, who he dismissed as "old." "I poke bears," Brooks said after the Grizzlies won game 2 of the first round of the 2023 Playoffs against the Lakers. "I don't respect no one until they come and give me 40 (points)." Not long after, the Grizzlies were eliminated in a 40-point blow-out during game 6.
The team reportedly offered contract extensions early in the season to Brooks, who has been with the Grizzlies for six-and-a-half years. These were rejected, however, and Brooks was reportedly informed of the head office's decision in the last few days. The split appears to be an amicable one, however, with The Athletic's sources saying that both Brooks and the Grizzlies agree that it's time for both parties to make a "fresh start."