SUMMARY
- Spencer Dinwiddie has been a major defensively upgrade to the Lakers' second unit.
- He had an incredible game-winning block against Damian Lillard versus the Bucks.
Spencer Dinwiddie has always been a solid role player on the teams he has been on. The veteran point guard has never failed to deliver at the right moments. And sometimes, he’s led teams offensively by himself. Acquiring the 30-year-old was possibly the best move the Los Angeles Lakers have made following the trade deadline. Dinwiddie is someone who can help them achieve more depth in their lineup as well.
Spencer Dinwiddie has been a revelation on the defensive end since joining the Lakers
On an island vs perhaps the most potent scoring guard in the world
Clamps pic.twitter.com/1UiSEWfhRa
— LAbound (@LAbound2) March 5, 2024
Before Dinwiddie was acquired, the Lakers moved pieces from the bench units to the starting lineup frequently. They would switch between bringing Rui Hachimura and Taurean Prince off the bench. Austin Reaves played a few games with their second unit. LA barely saw any consistency and their overall record took a major hit. With Dinwiddie in the lineup, the Lakers have achieved an impressive 8-4 record.
Spencer Dinwiddie is trying to fill the Lakers’ defensive gaps
There have been many instances when the Lakers could never get a grip of themselves defensively. LA’s random lineups often left LeBron James and Anthony Davis to carry the entire starting five. While thriving bench players barely got minutes to contribute more numbers. Spencer Dinwiddie has helped bridge that gap. His numbers off the bench have been extremely crucial. But he plans on deviating away from his usual offensive ways.
Spencer Dinwiddie on adjusting his game, role, & mindset to help the Los Angeles Lakers win a championship:
“High usage offensive role is fun. Getting the ball is fun. But that’s not what this team needs. This team needs me to buy into the defensive side and help out. Willing… pic.twitter.com/S5mhkjlhCi
— NBA Buzz (@OfficialNBABuzz) March 11, 2024
According to NBA Buzz on X, he said, “High usage offensive role is fun. Getting the ball is fun. But that’s not what this team needs. This team needs me to buy into the defensive side and help out. Willing to do anything to help this team win a championship.” He has only been averaging 4.9 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game since joining the Lakers. But his defense has been very valuable to the team.
The Lakers have a perfect defensive combo with Spencer Dinwiddie and Anthony Davis
LA recently took on the Minnesota Timberwolves and won spectacularly. Davis was their key player of the night as he finished with 27 points, 25 rebounds, 7 steals, and 3 blocks. Davis has always been the focal point of the Lakers’ defensive schemes. And he has put other elite players in his position to the test. However, LA has a new defender in town that other teams need to be worried about.
During their previous game against the Milwaukee Bucks, the Lakers were extremely competitive. It was a close game toward the end of the fourth when the Bucks inbounded the ball to Damian Lillard. The 8x NBA All-Star is arguably the most lethal clutch shooter, but Spencer Dinwiddie’s defensive IQ was on full display. He managed to block Lillard on a step-back jumper to close out the game. Dinwiddie received praise from the opposition and his teammates.