Does Dillon Brooks know his season is over? originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Phoenix Suns became the first team eliminated in the 2026 NBA playoffs on Monday after being swept by the defending champion, the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Not many expected the Suns to win the series, but they still put up a respectable fight in the last few games.
The Suns' small forward, Dillon Brooks, is one of those players who is going to leave everything on the court and play until the very last second of the clock expires.
More: How Dillon Brooks earned an unlikely $1M bonus this season
Brooks had a great season, improving his offensive game and averaging 20 points, including two 30-point performances in the first series, proving he can be more than just a defensive nuisance.
Had Brooks played nine more games in the regular season, he undoubtedly would have been involved in the conversation for this season's 'Most Improved Player.'
It was such a solid season for Brooks; he is already preparing for next season.
During the team's exit interviews on Tuesday, a reporter asked the seasoned veteran why he still worked out in the morning.
"The offseason starts now," Brooks answered plainly.
That is the type of answer a Suns fan should want to hear after what should be deemed a successful season for them with all things considered.
Brooks teammate, Grayson Allen, also told the media that Brooks was showing the guys clips from Monday's game as if the Suns had another game this season.
The forward's enthusiasm has to be a pleasing sight for Suns fans, especially from a player coming off his best season.
Brooks is under contract with the Suns for the 2026-27 season, as part of the carryover of his 4-year, $80 million contract he signed with the Houston Rockets in 2023.
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