The Golden State Warriors were out of the competition on April 16, losing against the Sacramento Kings in the Play-In Tournament, 118-94. They are now looking to enhance their team for the next season. Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report presented potential free agent targets, including Spencer Dinwiddie of the from the Los Angeles Lakers. After the game, it was stated that it was challenging to find effective lineups with
Steve Kerr Stephen Curry Chris Paul and on the court due to height differences, even though Paul played well at times. According to
Anthony Slater of The Athletic , coach Kerr mentioned that it's not an ideal situation for Paul due to the team being relatively small, despite his capabilities.Kerr also praised Paul for his performance as the backup point guard, enhancing the team's performance during non-Stephen Curry minutes.
Buckley suggested that Kerr's statement indicated the Warriors' need for a new guard to lead the second unit.
Buckley also suggested that Spencer Dinwiddie could be a suitable candidate for this role, considering his decision-making skills and physical attributes.
Warriors Options Concerning Paul’s Contract
When the Golden State Warriors traded
Jordan Poole for Paul, it provided them with financial flexibility. Paul is under contract for $30 million next season, but the entire deal is non-guaranteed. The Warriors have the option to use his salary as a trade asset or remove it from their financial obligations before it becomes guaranteed on June 28. Paul has expressed his intention to continue playing next season and will not retire.
Paul mentioned that while he will discuss his future with his family and support system, he is certain that he will continue playing.
The Athletic reported Paul's positive feelings about his time with the Warriors, despite uncertainty about his future with the team.How Dinwiddie Would Assist the Warriors
The Los Angeles Lakers guard, who stands at 6-foot-5, would offer a taller option alongside Curry. His flexibility due to his height would provide the Golden State Warriors with a different dynamic than what Paul offered in 2023.
Acquiring Dinwiddie could potentially address some of the size issues on the defensive end, as acknowledged by Kerr.
In his 28 matches with the Lakers, he has averaged 24.2 minutes and 6.8 points per game. His scoring figures are lower compared to most of his career, as he had averaged more than 13 points in every season since 2018-19 except for the 2020-21 season.
Spencer Dinwiddie of the Los Angeles Lakers is considered an early free-agent option for the Golden State Warriors.
Given Kerr’s comments about size issues on the defensive end, landing Dinwiddie could help solve some of those issues.
In his 28 games with the Lakers, he’s averaged 24.2 minutes and 6.8 points per game. His scoring numbers are down compared to most of his career, averaging more than 13 points in every season since 2018-19 besides the 2020-21 season.
