As the LA Clippers still somehow plan to go from rock bottom to the play-in tournament, they need a mentality that is fierce, intense, and fearless. Dillon Brooks has always had this type of mindset and is known around the league for it, which is why Rich Paul, the NBA’s most prestigious agent, explicitly tells contenders he is the guy they need at the trade deadline.
Patrick Beverley was the same way; he could be one-on-one with LeBron James in crunch time or had just drained a wide-open three in the preseason, and the same level of energy would be evident. Hence, the Clippers’ best years were during his tenure with the team.
Thus, the Clippers’ passion, with 20 losses, is as flat as a pancake. This is why they need Brooks: he is a great veteran, and the winning attitude he brings is incomparable.
Dillon Brooks would ensure the LA Clippers play every game with urgency
Dillon Brooks is a winner, but the LA Clippers have those. James Harden and Kawhi Leonard are a superstar duo that have won in the regular season alone and together, with playoff streaks that are still going.
However, it is understandable that Harden and Leonard don't bring the same drive when they are losing as when they are up 20, draining nail-in-the-coffin buckets. This is what differentiates them from Brooks.
Rich Paul even mentioned that if the Houston Rockets had the choice to keep Brooks out of proposals for Kevin Durant, he would have never been traded. Yet, because Durant is a star who could turn a playoff team into a championship winner, the Rockets caved.
Though Brooks brings wanted locker room electricity, he has been dominating as a second option for the Phoenix Suns. He has averaged 21.6 points and 3.0 rebounds in 20 games, shooting 44.9% from the floor.
In addition to his scoring and liveliness, Brooks is an elite defender. On the other hand, the Clippers are not a great defensive team, justifying the holes he would fill if acquired by LA via trade.
That said, on and off the court, Brooks is the perfect target. The Suns specifically wanted him when they gave up Durant, so he will not be let go for a bargained package, but if the Clippers can negotiate an agreement without losing any star talent, there should be no hesitation on their side.