Brooklyn Nets: Spencer Dinwiddie’s consistency can elevate Brooklyn

In a summer filled with new players donning the black and white of the Brooklyn Nets, Spencer Dinwiddie will be returning for his 4th season with the team. This year could be his best one yet.

In 2018, Spencer Dinwiddie enjoyed a breakout season. He finished with a career-high in points per game while increasing his field goal percentage and three-point percentage from the previous year. His play was also pivotal for a Brooklyn Nets team that defied expectations and made the playoffs. This earned Dinwiddie consideration for the 6th man of the year award, cementing his status as a force to be reckoned with off the bench.

As 1 of just five returning rotation players from last year’s upstart squad, Spencer Dinwiddie’s going to have a challenging job of integrating new bench players into head coach Kenny Atkinson’s system. With all-star point guard Kyrie Irving missing at least ten games every season since 2014, Dinwiddie will also need to be prepared for nights where he’s running with the starters.

With consistent play, the former 2nd round pick could become even more fearsome for opposing defenses. This inconsistency isn’t always Dinwiddie’s fault, as a January surgery to repair torn ligaments in his thumb derailed his 2018-19 campaign. Although he returned in March, he wasn’t the same player, and it showed on the court as well as on the stat sheet.

Spencer Dinwiddie was spectacular before getting hurt, posting averages of 17.2 points and 5.0 assists while shooting 46% from the floor and 37% from three. When he returned from thumb surgery, his numbers dropped to 15.2 points and 4.1 assists while shooting 39% from the field and 26% from downtown. While this might not be entirely due to his injured thumb, it was clear that the 26-year old wasn’t fully recovered and needed more time to heal.

Early preseason results have been encouraging for Dinwiddie. Through 2 matchups, the young point guard is averaging 12.5 points, seven assists, and 7.5 rebounds per game. His shooting has admittedly left a little to be desired, but it’s important to remember that it’s just the preseason, and he’s also adjusting to new teammates.

If Spencer Dinwiddie can return to his early 2018 form at a consistent level, the Brooklyn Nets should be one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. Additionally, they might win a playoff series or two.