Memphis Grizzlies defensive ace Dillon Brooks is looking to add his name to the long list of disruptors that have tried to shut down Lebron James, and on Wednesday he took the trash talk to a new level with a critique of the future Hall-of-Famer that was a first.
On Wednesday night, despite being without several key players — including Ja Morant — the Memphis Grizzlies were able to overcome the problem and even their first-round playoff series with Los Angeles Lakers. Their 103-93 victory was a must-have for Memphis as they avoided heading back to LA in a likely insurmountable 2-0 whole.
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During the series, when Dillon Brooks has been on the court, he has often had the unenviable task of having to guard 19-time All-Star Lebron James. To try and find an edge against the NBA legend, Brooks has attempted what many others have and has tried to be physical and get in the head of James.
After leading the Lakers with 28 points and shooting over 50% from the field, it is unclear if Brooks’ strategy is working. However, the overall results of Game 2 have only emboldened the young Grizzlies star to continue his assault on Lebron James in whatever way he can, including some post-game trash talk.
Lebron James stats (’22-’23): 28.9 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 6.8 APG, 32% 3PT
When asked about the interesting moments between the two that were caught on camera Wednesday night, the Memphis Grizzlies forward had a surprising response.
“I don’t care, he’s old. I was waiting for that. I was expecting him to do that. He wanted to say something when I got my fourth foul. He should’ve been saying that earlier on. I poke bears, I don’t respect anyone until they come and [score 40 on me]. I pride myself on what I do, defense and taking on any challenge that’s on the board.”
– Dillon Brooks
While Lebron James is 38, an age where many NBA players are often in the midst of a steep performance decline, he was an All-Star in 2022-2023 and still remains a player that is often the best on the court any given night.
Things should be very interesting when the two teams compete in Game 3 on Saturday night.