NBA Speculation: Lakers Pursuing Unanticipated Point Guard Trade?

During the NBA trade season, it’s customary for the Los Angeles Lakers to be actively involved in various trade discussions. Traditionally, the Lakers are linked to rumors about acquiring notable players, and this year is no exception, with talks revolving around Brooklyn Nets point guard Spencer Dinwiddie.

Dinwiddie is reportedly dissatisfied in Brooklyn, facing accusations of lackluster performance during games. The former Colorado Buffaloes standout is currently averaging 13.5 points per game, marking his lowest scoring output since the 2021-22 season, which marked his return from a torn ACL.

Zach Lowe of ESPN delved into additional statistics that appear to support these claims. “He has attempted six or fewer field goals in five of Brooklyn’s past seven games—and only 16 2-point shots total in that stretch. That is a point guard in name only—floating, half-present. Dinwiddie is averaging 14 drives per 100 possessions—the second-lowest rate of his career, per Second Spectrum. His shots at the rim are near a career-low level. Both numbers are tracking down. It almost looks as if Dinwiddie is on some kind of strike.”

The Lakers’ apparent desperation for playmakers might serve as a catalyst to reignite Dinwiddie’s performance. Interestingly, in the recent game where Dinwiddie’s Nets faced the Lakers, he delivered a commendable scoring performance. Notably, he contributed 19 points on just 11 shots, playing a key role in the Nets’ 130-118 victory in LA.

Brooklyn Nets guard Spencer Dinwiddie (26) dribbles the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers during the first half of game 4 of the first round of the NBA playoffs at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn,NY. Saturday, April 22, 2023.
Noah K. Murray-NY Post.
NBA – Nets 76ers

Dinwiddie’s History

Nets fans hold a special affection for Dinwiddie, primarily for his significant contributions during his initial tenure in Brooklyn. Initially selected by the Detroit Pistons in the 2014 draft, Dinwiddie was later traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2016. However, his time with the Bulls was brief, limited to preseason appearances before being waived.

Brooklyn subsequently opted to sign him a few months later, marking the phase where Dinwiddie established himself in the NBA. His standout season occurred in 2019-20, recording impressive averages of 20.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 6.8 assists. Despite his noteworthy individual performance, the Nets reached the playoffs that year, only to be eliminated in the first round through a sweep by the Toronto Raptors.

Trade assets held by the Lakers

Given that Dinwiddie is nearing the end of his three-year, $54 million contract, the Lakers would have an easy time completing a trade involving D’Angelo Russell. Russell, who recently inked a two-year, $36 million contract with the Lakers, played with Dinwiddie from 2017 to 2019 during his prime years with the Brooklyn Nets. It’s important to note that Russell is three years younger than Dinwiddie, which may cause the Lakers to hesitate before bringing in another veteran player.

The Lakers are also considering Rui Hachimura as a possible trade candidate. Hachimura, 25, has had difficulties in spite of the team’s high expectations, which were demonstrated by the three-year, $51 million contract he signed in the summer. This is especially true following a strong first season in 2022–2023 with the Purple and Gold.

Even though they have recently retooled their roster frequently, the Lakers appear committed to making further moves. The Lakers are worried about roster continuity, thus the question of whether a trade including Dinwiddie could be the answer emerges.