Memphis Grizzlies guard Dillon Brooks expressed regret for the play that injured Golden State’s Gary Payton II, saying, “If I were able to take it back, I would.” But the Mississauga, Ont., native defended his effort after criticism of the incident.
“I didn’t mean for it to hurt somebody,” Brooks told reporters ahead of Monday’s Game 4. “If I were able to take it back, I would. But that’s in the past.”
The incident occurred early in Game 2 of the second-round series. As Payton drove to the basket, Brooks jumped up to defend but his hand swipe instead knocked the Warriors’ guard to the floor. Payton landed awkwardly in immediate pain and was later diagnosed with an elbow fracture that will likely end his season. Brooks was ejected from the game with a flagrant foul and was also suspended for Game 3.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr told reporters Brooks “broke the code” by putting Payton in danger on the play. In response, Brooks said he didn’t understand Kerr’s comment because, “It’s the playoffs. Every bucket, every basket and every play counts.”
“It’s a fast-paced game. Stuff happens. Guys jump in the air and guys can contest shots,” Brooks added. “Sometimes the play unfolds, and you fall down. He tried to brace his fall with his arm. It’s a tough play. If I could take it back, I would. But I can’t take it back.”
The Warriors lead the best-of-seven series 2-1 and have a chance to tighten their grip with a win Monday night. While the Grizzlies will have Brooks back, star Ja Morant is expected to miss the game with a knee injury suffered in Game 3.
