Why Dillon Brooks' Shooting Woes Are Holding Back His Game

The Curious Case of Dillon Brooks' Shooting Woes

Dillon Brooks has had an up and down start to his NBA career with the Memphis Grizzlies. The Canadian wing showed promise as a rookie, averaging over 11 points per game and earning All-Rookie Second Team honors in 2017-18. However, his shooting percentages and overall scoring production have declined over the past couple seasons.

Brooks is currently shooting just 41.2% from the field and 32.7% from three this year. His effective field goal percentage of 46.2% ranks near the bottom of the league for wings. While Brooks has improved as a defender and passer, his inconsistent shooting has held him back from taking the next step.

Examining Dillon Brooks' Shooting Form and Mechanics

When you watch Brooks shoot, whether on catch-and-shoot chances or off the dribble, some technical issues stand out:

• His base is too wide, which reduces balance and rhythm in his motion
• He pulls his guide hand away from the ball too early during his motion
• His release point is inconsistent, sometimes drifting left or right
• His wrist action does not properly snap through upon release
• He pushes the ball upward more than shooting it in an arc
• His hand placement on the sides of the ball leads to instability

Brooks' low set point before he shoots also makes it tougher to get his shot off quickly and accurately. Coupled with a tendency to rush his mechanics, this causes many of his jumpers to come off unbalanced or altered at the last second.

Steps for Dillon Brooks to Improve His Shooting

For Brooks to take the next step as a scorer, improving his shooting form and consistency has to be a top priority. Here are some specific things he could focus on:

1. Widening his base to improve balance and leverage
2. Keeping his guide hand on the side of the ball longer through his motion
3. Shooting up through the ball more to create better arc
4. Holding his follow-through to build muscle memory
5. Quickening his release off the catch to get shots off faster

Brooks also needs to get a lot of reps up in the offseason from NBA 3-point range. Developing his catch-and-shoot ability and 3-point accuracy could really help his game and the Grizzlies' offense.

The Importance of Shooting for Brooks and the Grizzlies

Reliable outside shooting is crucial for wings in today's NBA. With Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. as Memphis' foundational players, the team needs wings who can space the floor and capitalize on kick-out passes.

Brooks has proven he can contribute in other ways as a scorer, rebounder and defender. But if he wants to take the leap and fulfill his potential as a starting-caliber player, improving as a shooter has to be his number one focus this offseason and beyond.

There is still time for the 24-year-old Brooks to iron out his form and become a consistent threat from outside. If he can develop a quicker, more balanced and efficient shooting motion, it would raise his scoring average and open up driving lanes for himself and teammates. It could be the key to unlocking the next level of his game.

FAQs

What are some issues with Dillon Brooks' shooting form?

Some problems with Brooks' shooting mechanics include a wide base, pulling his guide hand away too early, inconsistent release point, lack of wrist snap, pushing the ball upward, and improper hand placement.

How can Brooks improve his outside shooting?

Brooks can focus on widening his base, keeping his guide hand on the ball longer, increasing his arc, holding his follow-through, and quickening his release. Getting up a lot of repetition from 3-point range is also key.

Why is reliable shooting so important for Brooks' development?

As a wing in today's NBA, having consistent outside shooting is crucial for floor spacing and complementing drivers like Ja Morant. Becoming a better shooter could take Brooks' scoring and overall game to the next level.