Dillon Brooks appears to have a strong future in Phoenix, with the Suns expected to explore a long-term extension for the veteran forward this offseason.

According to Gerald Bourguet of Sports360AZ, Suns owner Mat Ishbia has openly expressed his admiration for Brooks, who is eligible to sign an extension worth up to a projected $125.4 million over four years.

While Bourguet believes a deal of that size is unlikely, he expects keeping Brooks in Phoenix to be a priority.

Evaluating Brooks’ first season with the franchise, the analyst notes that his impact extended beyond the stat sheet.

Although his offensive production was inconsistent at times and efficiency has never been a major strength of his game, Brooks provided energy, toughness and a competitive edge that the Suns often lacked.

The 30-year-old also emerged as an important voice in the locker room, earning praise for his leadership qualities and professional approach.

Those traits have reportedly increased his value within the organization, even if his on-court performances were occasionally uneven.

Bourguet projects a more realistic extension could be worth between $70-75 million over three years or roughly $90-100 million across four seasons.

While such a contract could become difficult to justify later in Brooks’ career, Phoenix appears willing to invest in the intangibles he brings to the team.

“Leadership and toughness doesn’t age,” one source told Bourguet.

Pacific Notes: Brooks, LeBron, Suns, Acuff, Kings, Clippers https://t.co/j5pKvvU5JD