Warriors’ Next Move is Clear: Pat Spencer Has Earned His Spot
The Golden State Warriors made headlines with a pair of trades on Wednesday night, headlined by the acquisition of Kristaps Porzingis - a move that signals a win-now mindset for a team still chasing contention. But amid the big-name transactions, it was a 29-year-old guard on a two-way deal who stole the spotlight on Thursday.
Pat Spencer, in what could very well be his last game under his current contract, made a loud case for a full-time roster spot - and the Warriors would be hard-pressed to ignore it.
Spencer’s Breakout Performance Comes at the Perfect Time
Spencer poured in a career-high 20 points in Golden State’s gritty 101-97 comeback win over the Phoenix Suns, a performance that felt like more than just a spark - it was a statement. Making just his fifth start of the season, Spencer came out firing, knocking down five of his first seven three-point attempts to help the Warriors take a 59-55 lead into halftime.
He finished the night 6-of-11 from deep, easily surpassing his previous best of three triples in a game - a mark he had hit twice earlier this season. But it wasn’t just the numbers.
It was the timing, the poise, and the confidence with which Spencer played that stood out. In a game where every possession mattered, he looked like a player who belonged - not just on the floor, but on the roster.
And here’s the kicker: Thursday’s game marked Spencer’s final appearance under his two-way contract eligibility. If the Warriors want him available for Saturday’s showdown against the Lakers at Crypto.com Arena, they’ll need to convert his deal to a standard NBA contract within the next 36 hours.
Given how he’s performed - and considering the current state of the roster - that move feels all but inevitable.
Roster Moves Open the Door
Golden State set the table for this decision with a pair of trades that cleared space and sent a message. In a surprise double-dip on Wednesday night, the Warriors shipped out three players while bringing back only one - Porzingis.
Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield were sent to the Atlanta Hawks in a bold swing that adds a proven stretch big to the frontcourt. Minutes later, the Warriors moved Trayce Jackson-Davis to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for a second-round pick. Just like that, the roster was down two bodies - and Spencer’s path to a full-time role became much clearer.
With two open roster spots, the Warriors have options. They could keep one slot open and save on payroll, or they could explore the buyout market for a veteran addition. But one of those spots should already have Spencer’s name on it.
Spencer’s Numbers Tell a Bigger Story
Over 36 games this season, Spencer has averaged 5.8 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists while shooting 42.3% from the field and an impressive 43.1% from beyond the arc. Those are solid numbers for a two-way player, but they don’t fully capture his impact.
He’s been steady, reliable, and increasingly confident - the kind of role player who fits seamlessly into Steve Kerr’s system. His ability to space the floor, move without the ball, and defend his position has made him a valuable piece in the Warriors’ rotation, especially with Stephen Curry sidelined the past two games due to a knee issue.
With Curry’s status still uncertain heading into Saturday, Spencer’s presence becomes even more important. He’s shown he can step up when called upon - and in a season where every game matters, that kind of dependability isn’t just nice to have. It’s necessary.
The Verdict
The Warriors have already made their splashy move with Porzingis. Now it’s time to make the smart one.
Pat Spencer has earned his spot. He’s made the most of every opportunity, and Thursday’s breakout performance was the exclamation point on a season’s worth of steady growth. With an open roster slot and a clear need for backcourt depth, the decision practically makes itself.
Golden State’s next move isn’t just obvious - it’s overdue. Sign Pat Spencer.
Let him keep doing what he’s been doing. Because right now, he’s not just filling in - he’s helping the Warriors win.