Toronto Raptors interested in injured Nets guard Spencer Dinwiddie

The Toronto Raptors have been rumored to be interested in some earth-shattering moves, including trading both Norman Powell and Kyle Lowry to a team like the Miami Heat after their eight-game losing streak. However, Masai Ujiri might be in the mood to add at the trade deadline, which brings Brooklyn Nets guard Spencer Dinwiddie into the equation.

Dinwiddie played just three games this season before tearing his ACL, an injury that became extra heartbreaking due to the fact he could hit free agency this offseason. Dinwiddie, who has not yet been ruled out for the season by Brooklyn, could be a very intriguing trade asset.

Dinwiddie’s ability to get hot quickly and make plays on both ends of the floor will make him a valued commodity. Rather than try to let any number of teams bid for his services, the Raptors want to make sure they have an inside track on Dinwiddie by adding him at the deadline.

Shams Charania of The Athletic (subscription required) is reporting that the Raptors, in addition to the Heat and Detroit Pistons, have an interest in Dinwiddie. While Dinwiddie is expected to opt-out of his $12.3 million player option, Toronto is intrigued by the fact they can use his Bird rights o offer him up to a five-year deal in free agency.

What would Spencer Dinwiddie bring to the Toronto Raptors?

Dinwiddie averaged just 6.7 points per game this season alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, but the last two years prove what an elite scorer he can be. Dinwiddie averaged 18.6 points and 5.6 assists per game over the 2018 and 2019 seasons, all the while shooting 43% from the field and 32% from 3-point range.

Nick Nurse loves versatile players, and while the 6-6 Dinwiddie is a natural point guard, he is equally adept at playing the wing on both offense and defense, where the former Colorado star’s long arms and tenacity help him create turnovers.

Brooklyn has reported that they are in need of a young role player and a second-round pick in exchange for Dinwiddie.

While the Raptors don’t have a second-rounder this year, and matching Dinwiddie’s contract could be difficult, there is a chance this deal gets done if Ujiri either gives up picks down the line, trades an amalgamation of bench players, or gets a third team involved.

When healthy, and not watching Durant and Irving vacuum up all of his shot opportunities, Dinwiddie has proven what a tremendous offensive talent he can be. Assuming that he recovers from his injury and is rewarded with a clean bill of health, Toronto going after him makes a lot of sense.