Nobody in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> seems to like or respect <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Rockets</a> guard Dillon Brooks. Sill, the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Memphis Grizzlies</a> guard was one of the best players in the FIBA Basketball World Cup.



Brooks does a whole of trash-talking, failing to back it up on the court more often than not. His antics have been so tiring that even his own home fans have booed him from time to time.



Nonetheless, the Canadian troublemaker couldn’t care less about his reputation. If anything, he claims he’s just like<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Los Angeles Lakers</a> legend Kobe Bryant, who created the ‘Black Mamba’ character.



<h2>Dillon Brooks Wants To Be Like Kobe Bryant</h2>



“It’s just a persona, people love it. I’ve grown to love it myself. It’s just like Kobe Bryant,” he told HoopsHype. “R.I.P. to Kobe Bryant how he had to figure out how to create a Black Mamba, a different persona when he comes out on the court.”



“So I guess that’s my persona, the villain, just on the court. But I’m a loving, caring guy who loves my kids, love my family, love my teammates,” he added.



Well, that’s one way to put it. If he talks about embracing a different personality when he’s on the court, then we get the similarity. Other than that, well, it’s a huge stretch.

Dillon Brooks compares himself with Kobe Bryant

Dillon Brooks compares himself with Kobe Bryant - Bolavip US

miniaturas

Dillon Brooks isn’t going to back down easily on the court. However, he didn’t do so outside of it either when it referred to his words aimed at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> in the playoff series against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a>.



Brooks played until last season for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies">Memphis Grizzlies</a>, but his tenure with the team ended poorly because of the postseason. Memphis were the second seed in the Western Conference, setting an intriguing matchup with the Los Angeles Lakers.


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#20230821#BUS#50081"></div>


Despite being ranked lower in the regular season, a team that has LeBron should always be considered dangerous. The problem was not that the Lakers eliminated the Grizzlies six games. It was Brooks’ decision to target the King what was seen as a huge mistake.



<h2>Dillon Brooks Doubles on the LeBron James Controversy</h2>



Brooks is certain that he was unfairly criticized for the Memphis Grizzlies’ exit in the first round of the playoffs against the Lakers. It’s not right to make one player take the full blame, but his performance was definitely not good enough to defeat Los Angeles.



“I felt like I always had him. I feel like that series was thrown upon me cause of the words that I say. But I’ve been saying things all year, and we won 50 games,” Brooks told Arash Madani of Sportsnet about his sayings towards LeBron during that series.



In the end, it was Brook’s incapability of back his talk with high level of play what ultimately led the Grizzlies to part ways with the player. He finished that series with a rather disappointing shot percentage of 31.2, so the team chose to not bring him back for another season.



<h2>What Team Does Dillon Brooks Play For?</h2>



Dillon Brooks plays for the Houston Rockets after signing a four-year contract worth $86 million.

Dillon Brooks Doesn’t Back Down from Beef with LeBron James

Lakers fans will not like Stephen Curry\&#039;s take on Magic Johnson

Austin Reaves is already recruiting Team USA stars to join Lakers

Dillon Brooks Doesn’t Back from LeBron James' Comments - Bolavip US

Dillon Brooks Doesn’t Back Down from Beef with LeBron James in Lakers’ Series

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Charles-Barkley-destroys-Dillon-Brooks-for-calling-Lebron-James-old-20230426-0042.html">Dillon Brooks</a> talked his way into <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> infamy last season. From poking <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> to sharing some wild takes about his game, he became a bit of a villain, but he failed to live up to that.



Instead of embracing it, Brooks didn’t even address the media after being humiliated on the court. That hurt his credibility even further, making him the butt of the joke on social media.



However, it wasn’t his antics, the never-ending talking, or even the fact that even his own fans despised him and booed him at home why the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Memphis Grizzlies </a>didn’t want anything to do with him anymore.



<h2>Brooks’ Shot Selection Led To Memphis Exit</h2>



According to a report by Tim McMahon of ESPN, Brooks’ terrible shot-selection led the Grizzlies to spend two full seasons looking to replace him. Apparently, he didn’t want to be a fourth or fifth scoring option.



“I think the reasons the Grizzlies were ready to move on from him are misunderstood,”McMahon said on Zach Lowe’s The Lowe Post.



“The nonsense was kind of like at a point where culturally it was time. That was not the primary reason,” added McMaon. “The primary reason the Grizzlies were trying to replace Dillon Brooks for a full two years, repeatedly going after players that would have replaced him in the trade market, and he probably would have been sent out, was because of the shot selection issue. Dillon did not want to be a fourth or fifth offensive weapon.”



Brooks doesn’t bring a lot to the table offensively, but he can still be a very solid role player in this league, assuming he understands his place and role. If not, he might not even finish that deal in Houston.

The true reason why the Grizzlies moved on from Dillon Brooks - Bolavip US

The true reason why the Grizzlies moved on from Dillon Brooks

The 2023-2024 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA </a>season will see the return of some familiar names, including Montrezl Harrell. Some <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers">Philadelphia 76ers</a> fans thought it was time to let Harrell go, but the franchise resigned him to play in the upcoming season.



For some teams, it is difficult to let go of experienced players who did not have good numbers last season. These players can become salary burdens, which can prevent teams from signing other players.


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#20230705#BUS#23562"></div>


Some fans are shocked that some players were resigned despite having bad attitudes and not working hard enough to earn a roster spot. Meanwhile, other players who worked hard were not offered new contracts or extensions.



<h2>Here are five players who will surprisingly return for the 2023-2024 NBA season:</h2>



1. Kris Dunn will be back in the NBA after a season playing in the G League. He signed with the Utah Jazz.



2. James Bouknight had multiple attitude problems and was found unconscious with a weapon in his car. He was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets and has been playing in the G League since 2021. He will play for the Dallas Mavericks this season.



3. Dante Exum never lived up to expectations as a point guard in the NBA. He played for the Utah Jazz and Cleveland Cavaliers before going to Europe to play for FC Barcelona and Partizan Belgrade. He will play for the Dallas Mavericks this season.



4. Reggie Jackson signed a $10.3 million contract with the Denver Nuggets. He has only averaged more than 10 points per game once in his four seasons with the Clippers.



5. Dillon Brooks signed a four-year, $80 million contract with the Houston Rockets. He had a bad season last year and was called the “Tank Commander.”

NBA: Dillon Brooks and Fred VanVleet labeled as \&#039;Tank Commanders\&#039;

NBA Rumors: Miami Heat could match the salary of two superstars at $83m

NBA: 5 players who are back on the court for the 2023-2024 season - Bolavip US

NBA: 5 players who are back on the court for the 2023-2024 season

Dillon Brooks played 73 games as a starter with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies">Memphis Grizzlies</a> during the 2022-2023 season in what was his second season with that many games as a starter and the first with 30.3 minutes per game.



On the other hand, Fred VanVleet played his last season where he averaged 19.3 points per game in 69 starts with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-raptors">Toronto Raptors</a> after rejecting his player option, being a surprise to everyone, but others knew that his time with the franchise was coming to an end, especially after last season where he averaged 19.3 points per game in 69 starts.



However, despite the fact that they had bad seasons, it is likely that Brooks and VanVleet will join new teams to play in the upcoming 2023-2024 season. VanVleet is likely to have more offers than Brooks.



<h2>Why were VanVleet and Brooks labeled as Tank Commanders?</h2>



During a recent episode of The Mismatch podcast, Dillon Brooks’ stats were released where it was revealed that he took 991 shots and only made 39.6% of those shots which translates to 392/991. The worst thing is that only one other <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA </a>player surpassed Brooks last season: Fred VanVleet with 1112 attempts and only scored 437 for 39.3%.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/2LYwsYVuP4uuHdROQ76y6H?si=bVwOhm1hR7albxFnigCeqQ"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230705_BUS_24068_spotify-fvv.webp&amp;width=650&amp;height=234" alt="" class="wp-image-24072" width="650" height="234" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/spotify-fvv.jpg 656w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/spotify-fvv-300x108.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px"></figure></div></a><figcaption><a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/2LYwsYVuP4uuHdROQ76y6H?si=bVwOhm1hR7albxFnigCeqQ">click here to play the podcast</a></figcaption></figure>



On the other hand, StatMuse also shared stats on the worst field goal attempts over the past season. Not only are VanVleet and Brooks below 40% at FG percentage, but Malik Beasley also makes the list with 39.5% and 937 attempts.


<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#20230704#BUS#23063"></div>

NBA Rumors: Trae Young follows potential Atlanta Hawks teammate on Instagram

NBA Rumors: The New York Knicks eye top defender in potential trade

NBA: Dillon Brooks and Fred VanVleet labeled as 'Tank Commanders' - Bolavip US

NBA: Dillon Brooks and Fred VanVleet labeled as 'Tank Commanders'

The<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-2023-How-long-is-halftime-20230329-0006.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-2023-How-long-is-halftime-20230329-0006.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> regular season is great and all, but there’s nothing like the playoffs. Winning an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-Marcus-Smart-admits-hes-been-obsessed-with-Stephen-Curry-since-the-NBA-Finals-20221212-0002.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA championship</a> can cement a player’s legacy, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/ringless-best-nba-players-that-have-never-won-a-ring-20210625-0009.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">going ringless</a> will forever be a stain on their résumé.
Throughout the course of history, we’ve seen multiple players rise up to the occasion in the postseason. They put their teams on their shoulders and take their production up a notch when it matters the most.
Likewise, the opposite happens sometimes as well. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-Nikola-Jokic-and-the-biggest-MVP-snubs-of-the-year-20230503-0023.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MVPs,</a> Scoring Champions, and future Hall of Famers also wet the bed in the playoffs every now and then, and we’ll talk about this year’s most disappointing playoff performers.
<h2>The Most Disappointing Players In The 2022-23 NBA Playoffs</h2>
<h3>3. Dillon Brooks</h3>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230509_BUS_221201_dillon_brooks.jpg_22993414_cb1a5855.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Dillon Brooks — Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
</div>
It’s safe to say that no one expected Dillon Brooks to be a superstar in the playoffs, but he was flat-out horrible. He talked a lot, but couldn’t walk the walk, failing to embrace that villain role and playing himself out of the Memphis Grizzlies.
But even though Brooks isn’t a superstar by any means, people still expected him to be a huge defensive factor. That wasn’t the case, and two missed assignments wind up costing his team a win.
<h3>2. Jordan Poole</h3>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230509_BUS_221201_jordan_poole_x2x.jpg_22993414_98caaf9b.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Jordan Poole — Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
</div>
Jordan Poole acts like a superstar, but he’s not. He’s all smiles and dances when his shot is falling, but he won’t be held accountable when it isn’t. And if he’s not making shots, why is he even on the floor?
The Golden State Warriors signed him to a huge contract extension in the summer. Now, Coach Steve Kerr only played him 10 minutes because of his terrible defense and erratic offense. Oh, and he went scoreless.
<h3>1. Joel Embiid</h3>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230509_BUS_221201_joel_embiid.jpg_22993414_cfcb9cb6.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Joel Embiid — Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
</div>
To be fair, this is not on him. Joel Embiid’s numbers have been fairly unimpressive in the playoffs, but that’s mainly because he was hurt and is still working his way back to full strength.
Also, the Philadelphia 76ers didn’t need him to do much to get past the lesser Brooklyn Nets in the first round. Still, it’s the MVP we’re talking about, so we want to see him dominate just like he did in the regular season.

NBA Rumors: Jordan Poole and the most disappointing players in the playoffs

NBA Rumors: Jordan Poole and the most disappointing players in the playoffs - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brooklyn-nets" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brooklyn Nets</a> went through hell with<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Kevin Durant </a>and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kyrie-irving" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kyrie Irving</a>. They almost made the franchise implode before they finally agreed that it was better to just get rid of them once and for all.
And while taking back Dorian Finney-Smith, Cam Johnson, and Mikal Bridges isn’t a bad return at all, it’s clear that they need to add more firepower, especially considering they still owe the Houston Rockets several draft picks and pick swaps.
With that in mind, the team should be quite aggressive in their pursuit of mid-level <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a>talent in free agency. Here, we’re going to let you know about three ‘gettable’ players they should try and sign.
<h2>NBA Rumors: 3 Potential Targets For The Brooklyn Nets</h2>
<h3>3. Gabe Vincent</h3>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230508_BUS_220765_gabe_vincent.jpg_22993414_566af584.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Gabe Vincent – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
</div>
Erik Spoelstra and the Miami Heat can turn nearly every player into a rotation-caliber kind of guy. That was the case with Gabe Vincent, who’s given them plenty of valuable minutes in his tenure with the team.
But Vincent is set to pursue a bigger pay and role now that he’ll become an unrestricted free agent. He would be their second-best playmaker behind Spencer Dinwiddie, assuming Ben Simmons is hurt again.
<h3>2. Dillon Brooks</h3>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230508_BUS_220765_dillon_brooks_x1x.jpg_22993414_cc031f3e.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Dillon Brooks – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
</div>
The Memphis Grizzlies have reportedly told Dillon Brooks that they don’t intend to bring him back under any circumstances. So, the trouble-making guard/forward will have to find a new home.
Brooks didn’t shoot the ball well or smartly in the playoffs, but he’s more than capable of knocking down the three-ball. More than that, he’s a solid wing-stopper that should be available at a discount.
<h3>1. D’Angelo Rusell</h3>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230508_BUS_220765_dxangelo_russell.jpg_22993414_5ad89615.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> D’Angelo Russell – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
</div>
D’Angelo Russell recently said that he’s not a true point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, so he might not be pleased with that off-the-ball role. His best days came at Barclays Center, so why not orchestrate a reunion?
Russell may never live up to the expectations of being a No. 2 pick. But he was an All-Star caliber player in Brooklyn, and he’d give them a solid second option behind Mikal Bridges for years to come.

NBA Rumors: Dillon Brooks and potential targets for the Brooklyn Nets

NBA Rumors: Dillon Brooks and potential targets for the Brooklyn Nets - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Memphis Grizzlies</a> won’t bring<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Dillon-Brooks-doesnt-regret-calling-LeBron-James-old-20230430-0030.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Dillon Brooks</a> back, which isn’t much of a surprise at this point. He failed to live up to that villain distinction, and he missed some key defensive assignments during that series vs. the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Los Angeles Lakers.</a>
Brooks became the laughing stock around the league for his comments on LeBron James and then failing to even talk to the media after losses. Also, he had turned down a contract extension earlier in the season.
However, as much sense as it meant for both parties to move on, former NBA player<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/JJ-Redick-destroys-Stephen-A.-Smith-over-Kawhi-Leonard-take-20230427-0018.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> JJ Redick</a> feels like he’s being their scapegoat. That’s why he called out Shams Charania for reporting that the Grizzlies wouldn’t keep him ‘under any circumstances.’
<h2>JJ Redick Puts Shams Charania On Blast Over Report On Dillon Brooks</h2>
“I’d be willing to bet that that language didn’t come from the Grizzlies,” Redick said on ESPN’s First Take. “This is the problem, all right? It’s an agenda-driven media. I have a problem with it.”
“The reality is that Dillon Brooks hurts them offensively,” Redick continued.”If you want to go in a different direction, that’s fine! That is fine. Do the antics; did that hurt them? I don’t know. I don’t know if that hurt them. There are other problems in roster construction, guys being out; there are other issues besides Dillon Brooks and him poking a bear. (…) It’s ok to go in a different direction; I don’t understand why you have to kick a guy when he’s down. For engagement, really?”
<h2>Brooks’ Agent Says Charania Spreads False News</h2>
Brooks’ agent, Mike George, also had plenty to say about this report. He took to Twitter to reactto Redick’s video, adding that Charania actually reported false news, as the Grizzlies never used those words:
“The leader of spreading false news and attacking players. Why any player in the league talks to this guy blows my mind. #weirdo,” George tweeted.

<div style="text-align:center">
<div class="ck-twitter" id="twitter-80">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShamsCharania</a> the leader of spreading false news and attacking players. Why any player in the league talks to this guy blows my mind. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/weirdo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#weirdo</a> <a href="https://t.co/Coj2b0aY6E">https://t.co/Coj2b0aY6E</a>
 — Mike George (@MikeGTdot) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeGTdot/status/1653879525665828864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2023</a> </blockquote></div>
 </div>
</div>
Charania has earned a fine reputation as one of the most connected and accurate insiders around the league. Then again, there was no need to add to the report, and it feels like Brooks is justthe fall guy for a team that talked a lot and couldn’t back it up.

JJ Redick destroys Shams Charania over report on Dillon Brooks

JJ Redick destroys Shams Charania over report on Dillon Brooks - Bolavip US

Dillon Brooks ‘poked the bear’ and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LeBron James</a> answered by eliminating the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Memphis Grizzlies</a>from the 2023 NBA season.TheLakerstook victoryby 40 points in Game 6and the King wonhis 40th career playoff series.
Brooks sparked a massive controversy after talking about an exchange of words with LeBron James which happened duringGame 2of the series. “I don’t care, he’s old. You know what I mean? I was waiting for that. I poke bears. I don’t respect no one until they come and give me 40.”
 
<div class="ck-related-news"> 
<div id="relatedNews-94"> </div>
</div>

After that win by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a>, the King sent a very special message to Brooks on Instagram. “If you ever see me fighting in the forest with a Grizzly bear, HELP THE BEAR.” This message by Lebron on social media was a clear reference to theMemphis Grizzlies, but also to Dillon Brooks’ quote about poking the bear.
<h2>Dillon Brooks doesn’t regret calling out LeBron James</h2>
So, during the last few days, Dillon Brooks remained quiet after LeBron James smashed him on Twitter and Instagram. However, during his final encounter with the media at Memphis to close out the season’s protocol, he finally talked about the controversial situation.
According to Brooks’ words, he wouldn’t take back anything from the incident and he doesn’t believe his statement fired up LeBron and the Lakers.”No. That’s who I am. I don’t regret it. I’m a competitor. I compete. I don’t think it got LeBron geeked up.I’m just gonna continue to be me and get better at what I do.”
 
<div class="ck-related-news"> 
<div id="relatedNews-75"> </div>
</div>

Dillon Brooks’ episode was a new one in the list of Grizzlies talking early. A few months ago, Ja Morant said the only rivals he was worried about in the path to future championship in the 2023 season were the Boston Celtics. The famous quote was: “I’m fine in the West.”

Dillon Brooks doesn't regret calling LeBron James 'old'

Dillon Brooks doesn't regret calling LeBron James 'old' - Bolavip US

The new-look <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-cavaliers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cleveland Cavaliers</a> were outstanding in the regular season. Darius Garland and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/donovan-mitchell" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Donovan Mitchel</a>l meshed perfectly, and that frontcourt of Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley was among the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA’s</a> finest.
However, it doesn’t seem like coach JB Bickerstaff had his team ready for the playoffs. Moreover, giving Kevin Love up might have hurt them, considering they lack the depth and size to match up with rival bigs.
So, now that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-knicks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">New York Knicks</a> have sent them packing early, let’s take a look at the three free-agent candidates they should try and prioritize as soon as they’re allowed to talk to players.
<h2>NBA Rumors: 3 Targets For Cleveland Cavaliers</h2>
<h3>3. Khris Middleton</h3>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230430_BUS_220280_khris_middleton_x1x.jpg_22993414_dea49705.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Khris Middleton – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
</div>
This one might as well be the most tricky, especially for salary-cap purposes. But Khris Middleton might not pick up his player option in an attempt to pursue one final lucrative deal, and he’d be a seamless fit there.
The Cavs desperately crave someone to round up their starting lineup. They need someone who can play defense on the wing but won’t be a spacing issue, and that’s Middleton. Maybe, they could do a sign-and-trade if he doesn’t pick up his player option.
<h3>2. Kyle Kuzma</h3>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230430_BUS_220280_kyle_kuzma.jpg_22993414_7fb43395.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Kyle Kuzma – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
</div>
The Washington Wizards reportedly want to keep Kyle Kuzma for the long run, but he might not feel the same way about them. He knows he can get paid somewhere else, somewhere he might actually make the playoffs.
Likewise, Kuzma is a perfect fit for what the Cavs need right now. He can play defense, and he’ll spread the floor with his three-point shooting skills, not to mention he’s another potential 20+ PPG scorer for them.
<h3>1. Dillon Brooks</h3>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230430_BUS_220280_dillon_brooks.jpg_22993414_581fe63d.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Dillon Brooks – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
</div>
Yeah, I know what you’re thinking. No one wants anything to do with Dillon Brooks right now, and rightfully so, but he might make the most sense for this team, at least from a basketball standpoint.
Brooks hasn’t been much of a shooter this season, but he’s proven that he can knock down the three-ball. He’s also a pesky defender in the perimeter and the wing, and he might be the cheapest option available for them if the Memphis Grizzlies don’t want him anymore.

NBA Rumors: Khris Middleton and free-agent targets for Cleveland Cavaliers

NBA Rumors: Khris Middleton and free-agent targets for Cleveland Cavaliers - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LeBron James</a> had enough of Dillon Brooks. After the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Los Angeles Lakers</a> eliminated the Grizzlies in Game 6 of the first round in the NBA Playoffs, the legendary player remembered all the trash talk from Brooks during the series.
Dillon Brooks sparked a massive controversy after talking about an exchange of words with LeBron James which happened during Game 2 of the series. “I don’t care, he’s old (LeBron James). You know what I mean? I was waiting for that. I poke bears. I don’t respect no one until they come and give me 40.”

<div class="ck-related-news"> 
<div id="relatedNews-97"> </div>
</div>

The answer fromLeBron James came on the court. The Lakers took victoryby 40 in Game 6 eliminating the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Memphis Grizzlies</a> and the King wonhis 40th career playoff series. Then, LeBron had a very special <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Russell-Westbrooks-message-to-LeBron-Lakers-after-the-Clippers-playoff-elimination-20230426-0034.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">message</a> for Dillon Brooks on Instagram.
<h2>LeBron James destroys Dillon Brooks with message on Instagram</h2>
ThoughDillon Brooks showed no respect for him during the series with all the trash talk, LeBron James remained silent. However, after getting the job done in the first round of the playoffs, LeBron spoke loud and clear on Instagram.
“If you ever see me fighting in the forest with a Grizzly bear, HELP THE BEAR.” This message by Lebron on social media was a clear reference to the Memphis Grizzlies, but also to Dillon Brooks’ quote about poking the bear.

<div class="ck-related-news"> 
<div id="relatedNews-84"> </div>
</div>

Furthermore, in his official Twitter account, LeBron James posted part of the lyrics of Trouble, a famous song by Jay-Z. For thousands of fans in social media, that was another shot at Dillon Brookstelling him there are’big shoes to fill’ and that he was ‘staring at a legend’.

LeBron James' message to Dillon Brooks after Lakers eliminated Grizzlies

LeBron James' message to Dillon Brooks after Lakers eliminated Grizzlies - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Memphis Grizzlies</a> have made a name for themselves for their trash-talking and tough attitude. They’re an up-and-coming team looking to become the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA’s</a> next dynasty, but they need to get past the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> first.
Notably, though, the attention won’t be on the Grizzlies’ best player when these teams meet again for Game 3. Instead, people will be looking at whether Dillon Brooks can put his money where his mouth is.
Brooks taunted <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LeBron James</a> by stating that he doesn’t care about him, adding that he’s only going to respect a player once he puts up 40 points on him. That’s why Stephen A. Smith believes it’s time to make a statement.
<h2>Stephen A. Smith Says LeBron Needs To ‘Bust Dillon Brooks’ After Disrespectful Comments</h2>
“When you chirp like Dillon Brooks chirped last night, you gotta bust his a**,” Smith said on First Take. “You literally gotta do that. I’m not talking about Games 4, 5, 6, 7 [and] winning the series. I’m talking about in a game where you make a statement, and you remind him who the hell you are. And this is one of those moments if you are LeBron James.”
“I’m not telling him to ignore the team; I’m not telling him to ignore strategy; I’m not telling him just go out there and jack up shots. I’m saying you can be LeBron doing what you normally do to win while busting his you know what in the process,” the analyst added.

<div style="text-align:center">
<div class="ck-twitter" id="twitter-3">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
“When you chirp like Dillon Brooks chirped last night, you gotta bust his ass.”
 �� <a href="https://twitter.com/stephenasmith?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stephenasmith</a> <a href="https://t.co/DVHcGILJxC">pic.twitter.com/DVHcGILJxC</a>
 — First Take (@FirstTake) <a href="https://twitter.com/FirstTake/status/1649061172556058625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2023</a> </blockquote></div>
 </div>
</div>
LeBron is an unstoppable force of nature when he drives to the rim, and he’s actually found plenty of success going against Brooks, so we fully expect him to remind him who he is the next time they set foot on the court. You poked the bear, Brooks, now deal with it.

Stephen A. Smith warns LeBron James after Dillon Brook's disrespectful comments

Stephen A. Smith warns LeBron James after Dillon Brook's disrespectful comments - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Warriors-could-lose-one-of-its-key-elements-and-its-not-just-Draymond-Green-20230223-0013.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Golden State Warriors</a> – <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Ja-Morant-reacts-to-NBA-suspension-with-Memphis-Grizzlies-20230304-0029.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Memphis Grizzlies</a> rivalry keeps brewing. For whatever reason, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Ja-Morant-and-NBA-players-suspended-because-of-guns-20230308-0029.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ja Morant</a> and Jaren Jackson Jr. have taken multiple shots at the four-time NBA champions, as if they had faced off in the Western Conference Finals or something like that.
The Grizzlies quickly went from an up-and-coming and seemingly tough team to a bunch of unproven young men talking a lot. And plenty of that has to do with Dillon Brooks’ never-ending antics.
Despite never even getting past the second round, Brooks hasn’t stopped talking all season long. He even took a huge shot at<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Report-Draymond-Green-is-to-blame-for-the-Warriors-struggles-20230216-0009.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Draymond Green</a> lately, stating that he wouldn’t be good in any other team.
<h2>Dillon Brooks Takes A Big Shot At Draymond Green</h2>
“I don’t like Draymond at all,” Brooks said. “I just don’t like Golden State. I don’t like anything to do with them. Draymond talks a lot. Gets away with a lot, too. His game is cool — with Golden State — but if you put him anywhere else, you’re not going to know who Draymond is. He plays with heart, plays hard, knows the ins and outs of their defense. I guess that’s why they like him over there.”
 
<div class="ck-related-news"> 
<div id="relatedNews-81"> </div>
</div>

<h2>Draymond Destroys Brooks With Epic Response</h2>
Unsurprisingly, Green kept receipts and waited for the right time to fire back. The former Defensive Player of the Year isn’t known for his shot-making, but he’s most definitely elite when it comes to the fine art of talking trash:
“I, quite frankly, wouldn’t like a team that beats me all the time either,” Green started. “You were a little kid in high school watching us win championships. Should be happy you even witnessed that.”
“You talk a lot now, so if you’d have four rings, sure, you talk a lot more,” continued Green. “Four All-Stars? You probably talk a bit more. Defensive Player of the Year? You damn sure would talk more. Two Olympic gold medals? You definitely would be talking because that would mean you beat Team USA, and we all know how that goes.”
“If you ever wondered why the Memphis Grizzlies is not ready to compete for a championship, look no further than this idiot right here,” Green sentenced.“They’re actually depending on this guy to help them win a championship. And he says his game is cool. Quite frankly, that just shows how little you know about basketball. And yet you running around talking about a dynasty? The dynasty starts after you, not with you.”
“I’m trying to figure out why they like you in Memphis. Or do they like you in Memphis?” Draymond asked. “That’s a better question. I’m not sure your teammates like you. But I can tell you why they like me over [in Golden State]. When you contribute in the way I have contributed to four championships, they tend to like you.”

<div style="text-align:center">
<div class="ck-twitter" id="twitter-98">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/Money23Green?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Money23Green</a> responds to Dillon Brooks’ comments <a href="https://t.co/cHu7R9A5nf">pic.twitter.com/cHu7R9A5nf</a>
 — The Volume (@TheVolumeSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVolumeSports/status/1633617118145986562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2023</a> </blockquote></div>
 </div>
</div>
Well, we couldn’t have said it any better. Green just humbled a young man that’s nothing more than a role player and the fourth or fifth-best player in his team’s starting lineup. There’s nothing wrong with talking the talk, so long as you can also walk the walk.