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PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 26: Dillon Brooks #3 of the Phoenix Suns during the second half of the NBA game at Mortgage Matchup Center on February 26, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Lakers 113-110. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
The Phoenix Suns may see Dillon Brooks returning to the starting lineup next week if the latest report is true. Brooks has been out since February 21st with a broken left hand after becoming one of the most important members of the team. Phoenix acquired Brooks last season as part of the Kevin Durant trade and saw him becoming the second most valued player in an overachieving team season. Suns fans badly want Brooks to return before the play-in.
Radio host and Suns insider John Gambadoro revealed the following about Brooks and Mark Williams’ return timetables:
“My expectation would be that both Dillon Brooks and Mark Williams get back into the Suns lineup at some point next week. More than likely Brooks back early in next week’s road trip and Mark back later in the road trip.”
Gambadoro claims that Brooks will be back next week and could return early in the week before March ends. Williams is also expected to return soon, but his first game may come back just a few days later. Phoenix hopes to be closer to full health for the upcoming play-in games and a shot at the postseason.
Suns Have Badly Missed Dillon Brooks
Phoenix had a chance to make the top six and get a guaranteed playoff spot by the time of Brooks’ injury. Most expected the Suns to struggle after losing Durant and Bradley Beal, but they were 33-24 at the time of Brooks being ruled out with his broken hand.
A 7-8 record since Brooks was ruled out shows how much he added to the team. Phoenix still holds a strong lead for the seventh seed and should have the best chance to advance from the play-in. However, the record under .500 without Brooks makes it clear that they need him in a one-game scenario.
The news of Brooks returning should make them a favorite over the other play-in teams of the Golden State Warriors, Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Clippers. Brooks has added toughness and feels like the personality that defines this team rebuilding from a failed super team.
Jalen Green Gets Impacted By This News
The Durant trade not only gave Brooks to the Suns, but they added young star Jalen Green. Injuries saw Green barely playing over the first half of the season, and he was missing for a lot of the games played with Brooks averaging 20.9 points per game.
The career scoring high of Brooks makes him a pivotal part of the offense. Green has played most of his games since Brooks was out and is fitting into the offense. Both players thrived together on the Houston Rockets last year, but they’ll have to both share roles as the second and third options now.
Green is averaging 17.6 points per game and has youth on his side to play more minutes if needed, especially with less “wear and tear” on his body this season. Phoenix needs Brooks, Green, and franchise superstar Devin Booker all playing at a high level to have a chance against other top West teams.