The NBA trade deadline is almost here. As such, the league is being divided into buyers and sellers. The league’s best teams will try to improve, and for the most part, the league’s worst teams will try to collect assets.
What about teams in the middle? For example, what about the Brooklyn Nets? They’re not one of the worst teams in the league, but they’re not contenders either. Should they be buyers or sellers at the deadline?
By contrast, the Sacramento Kings will be buyers. This is a highly competitive team that’s looking to improve. Recently, it’s been suggested that they’re looking for a backup point guard. Could the Nets send them Spencer Dinwiddie?
NBA Trade Proposal
Brooklyn Nets Receive: F Harrison Barnes, F Sasha Vezenkov G Davion Mitchell, 2024 Second-Round Pick (SAC), 2025 Second-Round Pick (SAC), 2027 Second-Round Pick (SAC)
Sacramento Kings Receive: G Spencer Dinwiddie, F Royce O’Neale
Around the league, some situations are more complicated than others. For some teams, the path forward is simple. They’re good, and it would serve them well to get better.
The Kings are one of those teams. It’s too late for this team to factor the future into their plans. The Kings are all-in on getting as much as they can out of De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. That duo ought to keep them competitive for the next few years.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Spencer Dinwiddie, Brooklyn Nets, Sacramento Kings Updates
On the other hand, the Nets’ situation is difficult to project. They owe control of their draft to the Houston Rockets through to 2027. Yet, they could also use more assets. Is this the right deal for them?
Why The Brooklyn Nets Do The Deal
If the Nets have reservations, they’ll pertain to absorbing Barnes’ contract. They’re moving Dinwiddie’s expiring deal. With Nicolas Claxton due for free agency this summer, they may be hesitant to trade that contract for a long-term pact.
Sure. On the other hand, Barnes will be easy to move this summer. Teams are always seeking big wings who can shoot, and his contract is reasonable enough. Meanwhile, we’ve also pointed to an advantage in this deal for the Nets. They’re getting something for Dinwiddie before he walks in the summer.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Spencer Dinwiddie, Brooklyn Nets, Sacramento Kings Updates
Specifically, they’re getting Mitchell and a trio of second-round picks. Neither Dinwiddie nor O’Neale is worth a first-rounder, but this is still a solid package. The Nets could use these assets to trade for another star down the line. Should the Kings send them the assets?
Why The Sacramento Kings Do The Deal
The Kings don’t seem to trust Mitchell. That’s understandable. He’s a great point-of-attack defender, but his offensive game needs some polish. Meanwhile, the Kings are trying to win now.
So, moving Mitchell makes sense. Dinwiddie will be a much more reliable option. His efficiency comes and goes, but he’s a dynamic offensive guard who can create shots and set up teammates.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Spencer Dinwiddie, Brooklyn Nets, Sacramento Kings Updates
Moreover, O’Neale can replace Barnes. He’s not as versatile of a scorer, but he’s a better defender. All told, this deal ought to make the Kings a better team. What else should matter to them at the moment?
