What does Spencer Dinwiddie bring to Lakers?

It’s official. But what will new guard Spencer Dinwiddie offer the Los Angeles Lakers, whose season up to this point has been mostly uneven?

“Playmaking, another ball-handler, another shot-maker,” star forward LeBron James told reporters. “Another veteran, that really helps.”

Dinwiddie, 30, is averaging 12.6 points, 3.3 rebounds and 6.0 assists, shooing 39 percent from the field and 32 percent on 3-pointers, all with the Brooklyn Nets. He carries NBA career averages of 13.6 points, 3.1 rebounds and 5.3 assists.

He comes to LA via the buyout market, after a trade with the Toronto Raptors.

Now, there is no doubt about Dinwiddie being in plenty of situations, being a veteran and as James said, a guy who can make shots. But he’s been fairly inconsistent in recent years and his 3-point shooting leaves a little to be desired.

So it’s hard to know if the Lakers signed a player who fills a need or just a player to see if he can help a little. LeBron needs shooters. That’s what they always say.

That said, the Lakers definitely needed some depth in the backcourt behind Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell. That’s especially the case with Gabe Vincent and Cam Reddish out with injuries. Dinwiddie will undoubtedly assist in that area. He often has been a starter but has played his best in reserve. If 

That will be his primary role. But this is the NBA and it’s all about fit. The Lakers have seen that time and again, most recently with Russell Westbrook. Just because you’ve heard of the guy doesn’t mean it’ll work.

But landing Dinwiddie for nothing is a steal of a deal for the Lakers, and that’s really the bottom line.

OFFICIAL: Welcome home 💜 pic.twitter.com/upXQktnJtg

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) February 11, 2024