The Phoenix Suns have exceeded expectations despite losing superstar Kevin Durant. Much of that success has been because of Dillon Brooks, and not just because of the culture Brooks previously provided for teams like the Memphis Grizzlies and Houston Rockets.
Not only has he done the same for the Suns, but he’s also putting up some of the best numbers of his career, and his play hasn’t gone unnoticed, with NBA legend Charles Barkley recently endorsing Brooks for a first-time All-Star selection.
Dillon Brooks Downplays All-Star Push While Making His Case
Brooks is putting up excellent numbers with the Suns. 42 games into the season, he’s averaging 21 points while shooting 44.5% from the field, both of which are career highs. The Suns have thrust him into the biggest role of his NBA career, and he’s taken it and run with it.
In their 114-96 victory Thursday over the Detroit Pistons, he scored 40 points while also adding eight rebounds and four assists to help the Suns improve to 29-19 for the season. Following the game, Brooks was asked about his All-Star candidacy. While he acknowledged the level he’s playing at, he made it clear he wasn’t campaigning for individual accolades and instead pointed to Devin Booker as the team’s true All-Star.
“Yeah, I feel like I’m playing at that level,” Brooks said. “Ultimately, I’m not gonna beg for it. If it comes, it comes. But our real All-Star is (Devin Booker). He deserves to be in All-Star talk, and being a reserve in an All-Star team.”
Dillon Brooks asked if he’s playing at an All-Star level:
“Yeah, I feel like I’m playing at that level. Ultimately, I’m not gonna beg for it. If it comes, it comes. But our real All-Star is (Devin Booker).” ✊💯
(via @AZSports)
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) January 30, 2026
Phoenix entered the season with modest expectations after trading Kevin Durant in the offseason, which dipped further when Jalen Green suffered an early injury. Brooks, who arrived in Phoenix as part of the Durant trade package alongside Green, has helped ensure the Suns haven’t missed a beat.
Barkley has taken notice, making a passionate case for Brooks to earn his first All-Star selection. “The one guy I’m going to war for is Dillon Brooks,” Barkley said on “Inside The NBA.” “I think Dillon Brooks deserves to be an All-Star. I’m giving this guy his flowers.”
“They got rid of KD and (bought out) Bradley Beal. They’ve got a better record than they had without those two guys. He’s the only difference in the team. You’ve got to give him his flowers.”
While Brooks isn’t solely responsible for the Suns’ unexpectedly strong season, his two-way play, scoring jump, and leadership have been central to their success. With All-Star reserves, selected by NBA head coaches, set to be announced on February 1, a spot on the roster remains firmly within reach for the 30-year-old.
