PHOENIX – When Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić sat down with Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady on their podcast and was asked who talks the most trash in the NBA, his answer came fast: Dillon Brooks of the Phoenix Suns. From one of the league’s most targeted superstars, that matters.

Feb 1, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) against Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

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It took a second for Dončić to say his name, although he mentioned right after how much he loves to play against the noise and admitted Brooks has played well this season. Somebody who has had his history with the Suns in the past, sure knows that Phoenix talks loudly, as he has seen it firsthand.

Luka Dončić says Dillon Brooks is biggest trash-talker in the league:

Trash talk, at its best, isn’t noise; it’s leverage. Brooks has turned it into a tool that bends games. Since his arrival, Phoenix’s defensive identity has sharpened. Opponents see fewer clean first options, more rushed decisions, and a Suns team that meets skill with confrontation. Phoenix contests more perimeter shots with intensity, forces longer offensive possessions, and ranks higher in opponent turnover rate during high-leverage minutes. That’s not accidental; that’s psychological pressure that guys like Brooks have brought that is showing up on the stat sheet.

Dec 14, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Doncic (77) dribbles the ball as Phoenix forward Brooks (3) defends during the second half of play at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-Imagn Images

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This Suns team doesn’t wait to respond; they initiate. Brooks sets the temperature early, talking, bumping, daring stars to prove it every possession. That edge travels. Teammates play taller, rotations are crisper, and close games tilt toward Phoenix because discomfort favors the prepared. Nationally, Brooks’ reputation is cementing. When Luka Dončić, who has had his problems in the past with the Phoenix Suns, calls you the best agitator alive, that’s peer validation. Locally, it’s culture-building as Phoenix isn’t just chasing talent alignment anymore; it’s enforcing standards.

Dec 14, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Doncic (77) shoots the ball as Phoenix forward Brooks (3) defends during the second half of play at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-Imagn Images

Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen