The Los Angeles Lakers currently have a full roster with 15 players under contract, a situation they hadn’t anticipated or desired. Christian Wood, Cam Reddish, and D’Angelo Russell all opted into their contracts for the 2024-25 season, leaving the Lakers without any available spots despite wanting to add more talent.
One player the Lakers signed late last season, guard Spencer Dinwiddie, has expressed a desire to return. However, due to the Lakers’ roster situation, there isn’t any room for him at the moment.
Dinwiddie, who was released by the Raptors after being traded from the Nets last year, had previously chosen between the Lakers and a return to the Mavericks. Now, according to NBA writer Marc Stein, Dinwiddie might opt to return to Dallas, where he could serve as a key bench player for the reigning Western Conference champions.
Potential Return to Dallas for Dinwiddie?
Stein reported in his weekly newsletter:
“Dallas might keep the spot open temporarily, but sources say the Mavericks are interested in re-signing Spencer Dinwiddie. He still maintains property in the Dallas area since being traded to Brooklyn in the Kyrie Irving deal in February 2023 and is interested in returning.
“Dinwiddie, who attended high school in the San Fernando Valley, chose the Lakers over a Mavericks return last February after being traded from Brooklyn to Toronto for Dennis Schröder and Thaddeus Young, then bought out.”
During his brief stint with the Lakers, Dinwiddie averaged 6.8 points and 2.4 assists per game, shooting 38.9% from three-point range in 28 games.
Lakers’ Interest in Retaining Dinwiddie
The Lakers might need a backup point guard if they decide to trade away guard Gabe Vincent. Vincent, a significant free-agent signing last year, played only 11 games for the Lakers due to injuries after signing a three-year, $33 million deal from the Miami Heat. His absence was a major reason the Lakers initially signed Dinwiddie.
If the Lakers make a significant move this summer—which is possible—they might trade one or both of their current point guards. Russell, with his $18.7 million expiring contract, is a strong candidate for a trade. Vincent, a reliable veteran when healthy, could also be moved.
If the Lakers trade one of their point guards and create a roster spot, they might look to Dinwiddie to fill a bench role. He is a solid playmaker and an excellent perimeter shooter.
However, Dinwiddie won’t wait indefinitely. A return to the Mavericks seems plausible for him, which could eliminate a bench option for the Lakers.
