Why Dillon Brooks was Phoenix’s main target in Kevin Durant Trade

Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia recently spilled light Why is a franchise priority Dillon Brooks When finalizes Trade blocks sent by Kevin Durant in Houston rockets In June. Ishby stressed that Brooks was influenced by the toughness and defensive edge of the sun wanted to establish as they moved from a three star model that failed to achieve results.

“We made Kevin Durant store, Dillon was the target,” Ishbia said. “Dillon is just about what we’re talking about. He’s the guy who wants here. So, to be very clear, defensive, hard, holding on his teammates … I love everything about the game Dillon Brooks.”

Brooks, 29, arrives in Phoenix with a reputation as one of the NBA’s norms and open defense counsel. Last season with missiles, there were 14.0 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game while recording 42.9% from the field and 39.7% of three in 75 performances. He played 31.8 minutes per competition, often retrieving the challenge of keeping the best shooter of the opponent’s team.

“We made Kevin Durant store, Dillon was target. Dillon is just about what we’re talking about. He’s the guy we want here.”

Matt Sleep in the sun garning Dillon Brooks in the store sent KD on rockets 🗣pic.twitter.com/capmodztm

– Kutchpoints (@clutchpoints) 24. September 2025

For the Sun, Brooks represents more than just defensive assistance. The franchise is the goal of redefining its identity after a disappointing 36-46 seasons that left them outside the playoffs. Despite the talene at the star level, including Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, the team fought with chemistry and consistent. Getting Brooks, the sun hopes to inject the intensity and responsibility in the list previously criticized for lack of bite.

Kevin Durant trade brings Dillon Brooks as the face of Suns Culture – the first shift

The decision to target Brooks also emphasizes the sunshine under the leadership of Ishbia. Once they are initially swinging for high stars, the organization now focuses on the construction of a balanced roster focused on culture and fits. The prominent reputation of streams as a relentless defense counsel and emotional leader aligns with this vision, even how his sometimes controversial games style drew criticism in the past.

Brooks will join Booker, New Main Coach Jordan Ottand a reshaped roster of the sun already subjected to significant changes to this exposing. Beal agreed to redemption and later signed with shrimp Los AngelesWhile Durant dealt with Houston for a package involved in Brooks, Jalen Green and Capital Capital. The moves reflect a clear turn towards depth, versatility and defense identity.

As the sun are preparing for the season 2025-26, Brooks is expected to be the cornerstone of that new approach. Its combination of the perimeter of the defense, improved shooting and intensity on the floor made him a priority in negotiations on duration. For the Ishbie and the Sun, the acquisition of Brooks signals commitment to the transformation of the team into the one phoenix fans can be proud of, regardless of Star Star.