When the Memphis Grizzlies take the floor for Wednesday’s game against the Houston Rockets, they’ll be without Dillon Brooks.
Brooks received his 18th technical foul of the season during Memphis’ win on Monday over the Dallas Mavericks.
NBA rules dictate that “a player or coach is automatically suspended without pay for one game once he receives his 16th technical foul during a regular season. For every two additional technical fouls received during that regular season, the player or coach will be automatically suspended without pay for an additional game.”
Citing that rule, the NBA announced on Tuesday that Brooks will be suspended for Wednesday’s game.
The following was released by the NBA. pic.twitter.com/SPZjl8ej43
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) March 21, 2023
Brooks has been an irritant to some of the league’s most well-known and decorated players throughout the season.
Given his reputation, few people have neutral opinions on Brooks. As such, it’s wasn’t surprising to see several fans comment on his latest issue.
Spent $5K and a whole game to trash talk Theo Pinson. https://t.co/W2erHa3bbd
— Taco Trey Kerby (@treykerby) March 21, 2023
Calling Theo a cheerleader is getting one’s money’s worth imo https://t.co/hPVqMtHH8O
— Kirk Henderson (@KirkSeriousFace) March 21, 2023
$78,621 amount for the 1 game suspension
Brooks has now been fined a total of $336,863 this season (per @spotrac) https://t.co/b08XAVOud4
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) March 21, 2023
Welllll ok https://t.co/Y7kxCESPms
— Zach Thomas (@zacharytthomas) March 21, 2023
The Grizzlies are one game ahead of the Sacramento Kings for the second seed in the Western Conference. Assuming both teams hold their place in the standings (which is likely) and that neither is upset, Memphis and Sacramento would meet in the second round of the playoffs. So, finishing ahead of the Kings and getting home court advantage for that potential series is important.
Brooks is an integral piece for the Grizzlies, especially on defense. That said, the Rockets have the second-worst record in the NBA and the worst in the Western Conference. So, while there’s no ideal time to be without him, this game is about as close as it gets.