Brooks Slams NBA Rankings: Direct Shot at LeBron and Embiid

It’s nothing new to see Dillon Brooks say exactly what’s on his mind. But this time, during the Million Dollaz Worth of Game podcast, his level of bluntness exceeded all expectations.

Faced with the Top 50 NBA players ranking compiled by Complex, where he was placed at just No. 48, the Phoenix Suns forward responded without hesitation, openly criticizing several names ranked above him.

Dillon Brooks vs. the ranking: “I’m not the 48th-best player”

For Brooks, the issue isn’t just the ranking – it’s the criteria. His responses focused on one key idea: the current season matters more than reputation.

Among his strongest statements was the one about LeBron James:

He’s not having a better season than me

Dillon Brooks

A bold stance, considering LeBron’s legacy. But Brooks deliberately shifted the conversation to the present, avoiding comparisons tied to the past.

Harsh judgments: from Embiid to Reaves

There was no shortage of direct shots at some of the league’s most talked-about stars:

• Joel Embiid: “No, he’s injured too often. You could sleep a whole week and he’d probably still be out.”
• Austin Reaves: “He’s a foul hunter.”
• Julius Randle: “One of the biggest complainers – always wants fouls because he plays very physical. Him, Zion Williamson and Giannis play like that.”
• Cooper Flagg: “He’s not having a better season than me, because if I were in his spot, the Mavs would be in the Playoffs.”
• De’Aaron Fox: “No, he’s not doing better than me.”
• Rudy Gobert: “No.”

Durability was a particularly relevant theme: Brooks emphasized how injuries heavily influence his judgment, also referencing Jalen Williams:

Too many injuries, but he’s talented

Dillon Brooks

Not just criticism: Brooks gives credit to NBA talent

Despite the provocative tone, Brooks also handed out praise:

• James Harden: “He’s tough.”
• Karl-Anthony Towns: “That guy is really good.”
• Brandon Ingram: “I rate his game very highly.”
• Amen Thompson: “He’s one of mine.”
• Desmond Bane: “That’s my guy.”

A sign that, while defending his own position, Brooks recognizes talent when he sees it.

Head-to-head comparisons: Brooks measures himself against everyone

Many of his responses weren’t about a player’s absolute value, but rather a direct comparison with his current season:

• Paolo Banchero: “Down year – he can do much better, he should be at LeBron’s level.”
• Cooper Flagg: “I like him, but he’s not doing better than me.”
• Trey Murphy III: “He’s playing well, but I can’t support losing.”
• Lauri Markkanen: “The numbers are good, but no.”

A clear philosophy: for Brooks, what matters is who truly impacts the current season.

Mindset and provocation: the Brooks trademark

This public outburst confirms a clear trait: Brooks sees rankings as a personal challenge. For him, it’s not about opinions, but about proving he deserves much more.

Whether you agree with him or not, one thing is certain: his confidence remains unshaken, continuing to make him one of the most talked-about personalities in the NBA.