© Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
The Nets are unlikely to extend Spencer Dinwiddie's contract beyond the season
After returning to the Nets in the Kyrie Irving trade, Spencer Dinwiddie is a constant contributor for Brooklyn. He has been a regular starter because he brings solid leadership, playmaking, and scoring for the Nets.
Spencer has been reliable in the 2023/24 season, but he probably won’t be a Net after this year. His contract expires after the season, which means he will likely get dealt before the trade deadline to at least get back some value.
“You watched the Portland game the other night, and I think we can say that the writing is on the wall for Spencer Dinwiddie after he was benched in crunch time for Dennis Smith Jr.,” Bobby Marks said in his conversation with HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.
A Dinwiddie exit leads to more opportunities for the Nets
If Dinwiddie gets traded by the deadline on February 8, the Nets have multiple opportunities to make some changes. Spencer has a reasonable contract that can act as filler for a trade, and the big name in the rumors right now is Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray.
The former All-Star perfectly fits Jacque Vaughn’s system, and the Hawks are seeking expiring contracts and draft compensation. While Brooklyn does not have their pick in 2024, they still have a treasure trove of Phoenix Suns picks they received in the Kevin Durant trade.
Murray will be an excellent addition to the Nets because he’ll step in as the primary playmaker to help Cameron Thomas and Mikal Bridges focus on their scoring. The former Washington Husky will also be a defensive upgrade on Dinwiddie, who’s not known for his defensive prowess.
Dennis Smith Jr. will benefit from Dinwiddie’s situation
Dinwiddie likely won’t be with the team in the long run, which opens an opportunity for Dennis Smith Jr. to step up and become a potential starter. Even if the Murray deal does not happen, the Nets already have a readymade starter on their bench with Smith.
Brooklyn’s starting group needs perimeter defense and playmaking, which Smith has in spades. No matter what happens with Dinwiddie in the next month, Coach JV has to reward DSJ for his contributions in the past few weeks. He deserves the recognition and the opportunities to shine.
