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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Dillon Brooks has crafted a distinctive reputation in the league over just a few months. Initially, during last year’s playoffs, fans despised him due to his antics against LeBron James, which included trash-talking and hitting LeBron in the groin area during a game. However, through his FIBA basketball endeavor, he began to change the notion. Moreover, with several standout performances in the current NBA season, he has now cultivated a bond with the fans. Despite being out due to an injury, he actively assumes a leadership role for the Houston Rockets.

Beyond his on-court theatrics, Dillon Brooks has carved out a reputation for his pre-game ritual of intensely staring down opposing players. Adopting a villainous demeanor and maintaining a poker face, Brooks usually takes up a spot on the court and engages in minutes-long stare-down sessions. In a recent development, as Brooks recovers, it appears that Anthony Edwards is carrying on the tradition.

Anthony Edwards is the NBA’s new villain in Brooks’ absence

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During a matchup between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Portland Trail Blazers, Edwards welcomed the visitors with a Dillon Brooks-inspired stare-down. With both hands casually tucked into his pockets, Edwards positioned himself at the center of the court, right on the Wolves logo. However, Edwards added his twist to the ritual by breaking into a smile and visibly enjoying the moment, injecting a bit of lightheartedness into the intense pre-game stare-down tradition.

Anthony Edwards is enjoying his best NBA season so far. With a remarkable 46% field goal accuracy, he is averaging nearly 26 points, along with 5 assists and a steal per game.

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Coming into the game, both teams look to bounce back. The Minnesota Timberwolves, currently leading the Western Conference, recently faced a challenging defeat against the Boston Celtics, who reign supreme in the East, in an overtime thriller. Meanwhile, the Portland Trail Blazers are reeling from a massive blowout loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, suffering a staggering 62-point deficit.

Dillon Brooks is nearing a return

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Dillon Brooks is yet to appear for the Rockets in 2024. On December 27, 2023, Brooks suffered an oblique injury in a game against the Indiana Pacers and has been sidelined ever since.

However, as the Houston Rockets gear up for a challenging stretch against playoff-contending teams, there is a hint that Brooks might make a comeback during their road trip. Since he is out for the game against Detroit Pisotns, Brooks can probably help his team close out the road games and return home on a positive note.

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Ime Udoka, the Rockets’ coach, expressed hope recently, suggesting that Brooks could potentially rejoin the lineup before their road games conclude in New York.