MACAU, CHINA – Dillon Brooks isn’t known for backing down. But when he was traded to the Phoenix Suns this summer, the veteran forward didn’t waste time trying to find his footing – he went straight to the source.

“It’s been easy,” Brooks told BasketballNews.com during the NBA China Games in Macau. “My first call when I got traded was to (Book), trying to get acquainted. It’s better for me.”

The trade that brought Brooks to Phoenix was part of one of the offseason’s biggest shakeups. The Suns sent Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets, acquiring Brooks, Jalen Green, and draft capital in return. For a team that missed the 2025 Play-In Tournament and entered the summer with more questions than answers, the move signaled a shift toward youth, defense, and a reset in culture.

Brooks, 29, arrives with a reputation that precedes him – a fiery competitor, a relentless defender, and a player unafraid to toe the line between confidence and chaos. But for all the noise that often surrounds him, Brooks’ arrival in Phoenix feels different. He’s not being asked to be the agitator. He’s being asked to be a tone-setter alongside one of the league’s most consistent stars in Devin Booker.

And from the sound of it, the two have already formed a connection.

After stints in Memphis and Houston, Brooks lands in Phoenix at an interesting time. The Suns have transitioned from championship contention to identity building. Gone are Durant and Bradley Beal, replaced by a roster built around Booker, Green, and Brooks – a trio that blends scoring, youth, and toughness.

In Houston, Brooks averaged 14.0 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists last season while shooting a career-high 39.7% from deep. But what Phoenix values most is his edge – the defensive intensity and accountability that helped stabilize a young Rockets team under Ime Udoka.

For the Suns, who ranked in the bottom third of the league defensively last season, Brooks’ arrival represents more than just numbers. It’s about attitude.

That’s exactly what Booker has been asking for. As the longest-tenured Sun, Booker has become both the voice and heartbeat of the organization. Having a player like Brooks beside him – one who’s both vocal and battle-tested – could give Phoenix the emotional jolt it’s been missing.

Book and Brooks: A new chapter in the valley and building chemistry

Brooks’ comment about calling Booker first may seem small, but it speaks volumes about intent as this is the first time they’ll share an NBA locker room. “He’s been like a big brother to me, taking me under his wing,” Brooks shared. (We’re) always talking every single day, (and it’s good) being able to play beside him and not being able to guard him,” Brooks said in jest.

Booker, now entering his tenth season, has quietly evolved into the kind of leader who balances accountability with mentorship. For Brooks, that relationship could help smooth his transition and reshape his image from “villain” to veteran leader.

Their synergy will be key for Phoenix, especially as head coach Jordan Ott experiments with defensive combinations and lineups around his new core. Brooks’ ability to guard the opposing team’s best wing should free Booker to focus more on offense – a shift that could benefit both players and the team overall.

Phoenix enters the 2025-26 season with measured expectations but renewed energy. With Booker leading the way, Green bringing athleticism and upside, and Brooks infusing defensive bite, the Suns have the makings of a team that can compete nightly – even without a superstar trio.

For Brooks, the goal is simple: embrace the city, connect with his teammates, and prove that his fire can fuel winning.

He’s already made one thing clear – he’s found comfort in the Valley.

“Getting acquainted with Phoenix is easy – love the city, love the fans, and I can’t wait for the season.”