Dillon Brooks’ front-row appearance adds twist to Lakers vs. Thunder

Dec 23, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) against Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The appearance carried extra significance considering Phoenix was swept by the Thunder just weeks ago in the first round. Instead of being on the floor Monday night, Brooks watched from the sidelines as Oklahoma City continued its playoff run.

Another storyline attached to Brooks’ appearance was his ongoing rivalry with Lakers star LeBron James. Matchups between Los Angeles and Phoenix frequently brought tension between the two, with physical play and visible frustration becoming part of the regular-season meetings.

Dec 14, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) react during an altercation that resulted in a technical for Brooks during the second half of a game at at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-Imagn Images

Because of that history, some fans applauded Brooks’ appearance as elite trolling, while others questioned why he would show up to watch the same team that eliminated him from the postseason. Either way, it became another moment where the Suns — despite their season ending weeks ago — still found themselves tied to the NBA playoff spotlight.

Rivalries and personalities rarely disappear when a season ends. If anything, the playoffs only magnify them further — even off the court.

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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde

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