NBA Free Agency Recap (7/2)
Spencer Dinwiddie Brings Veteran Leadership to a Young Hornets Team
The Charlotte Hornets bring in a veteran point guard to help lead their bench. The Hornets are one of the youngest teams in the league, and in need of some veteran leadership. Dinwiddie had strong stints as a starter last season and still has plenty to offer on the court.
Dante Exum Resigns With the Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks retain a steady backup guard to aid their depth. Since making a return to the NBA, Exum has been extremely solid. Although he has dealt with injuries and missed significant time the last couple of years, he plays well whenever he is on the court. Exum has shot 49% and 43% from three in his past two seasons, and has taken the toughest defensive assignments throughout these seasons. Exum was targeted by multiple contenders before ultimately deciding to stay with the Mavericks and potentially compete for an NBA championship.
The Knicks Find Their Head Coach in Mike Brown
After a thorough search for their next head coach, the Knicks have finally landed on the two time coach of the year, most recently in 2023, Mike Brown. A championship assistant with the Warriors and the Spurs, Mike Brown takes his championship pedigree to the hopeful city of New York. With added depth and an overall talented group, the Knicks hope that the coaching change will be the final piece in a long lasting journey for their first championship in over fifty years.
Deandre Ayton Headed to the Lakers
As expected, Ayton is heading to the City of Angels. The deal is two years with a player option for the second year. After being released by the Blazers, the Lakers have found their starting center to play alongside Luka and LeBron. There’s no denying Ayton's talent—he has averaged a double-double in every season of his career—but questions remain about his motor and locker room presence. He’s developed a reputation for being lazy and potentially difficult behind the scenes. The opportunity to contend for a title may help shift that narrative, as winning often cures all—but that remains to be seen.
