Phoenix Suns’ Devin Booker pushes back on Dillon Brooks’ iso approach ahead of Game 2

Following Phoenix’s 35-point Game 1 loss, a performance defined by turnovers and stagnant offense, the conversation about “iso ball” has taken over the series. The Thunder’s defense forced 17 turnovers and turned them into 34 points, overwhelming the Suns and exposing their lack of flow.

Ott was blunt postgame about what he doesn’t want his team to do, especially against the reigning champions. He emphasized ball movement and quick decision-making as essential adjustments heading into Wednesday’s game.

Booker echoed the sentiment, reinforcing his head coach’s message during shootaround.

Suns guard Devin Booker says “iso ball will not get it done” against this Thunder defense.

“We know how they help each other on the defensive end.” pic.twitter.com/WKIVHW2tJ8

— Arizona Sports (@AZSports) April 22, 2026

“We know how they shift for each other,” Booker said, according to Arizona Sports. “We know how they help each other on the defensive end. So iso ball will not get it done.”

However, those comments contradict what forward Dillon Brooks suggested on Tuesday. He said he will still look for isolation opportunities, especially against OKC star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Apr 19, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) yells to his teammate for the ball as Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) defends in the second quarter during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Now, as the Suns look to tie the series before heading home, that tension will be present within the team. On one hand, a head coach and key player are advocating for a different type of strategy, while another player has openly opposed the idea and wants to attack the opposing team his way.

Game 2 will be as much about which strategy pays off as it is about maintaining cohesion. It will be about whose voice carries the most throughout the game — and how to prevent the series from slipping away too quickly.

Apr 19, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) reaches for a loose ball between Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) and guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) in the second half during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

The Suns and the Thunder play Game 2 on Wednesday, April 22, at 6:30 p.m.