Pat Spencer’s Rise: From Two-Way Contract to Near-Lock for Warriors’ Main Roster
Pat Spencer’s journey with the Golden State Warriors is shaping up to be one of the season’s most compelling under-the-radar storylines. After signing a two-way deal back in October, the 29-year-old guard is now on the verge of securing a standard NBA contract - a well-earned reward for his recent stretch of strong play and growing trust from head coach Steve Kerr.
Spencer has started four straight games for the Warriors, even holding onto his spot in the starting lineup after Stephen Curry returned from injury. That kind of continuity speaks volumes.
In a system that values rhythm, chemistry, and defensive accountability, Kerr doesn’t hand out starting nods just for fun. Spencer’s presence on the floor isn’t just a stopgap - it’s a reflection of his impact.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Spencer is considered a “virtual lock” to have his contract converted before season’s end. That’s a big deal, especially considering where the Warriors sit in terms of roster flexibility.
After signing veteran guard Seth Curry to a rest-of-season deal earlier this month, Golden State is out of open roster spots and bumping up against the second tax apron. In other words, someone’s going to have to go if Spencer’s going to stay.
That brings us to the trade deadline, and all eyes are shifting toward January 15 - the date when 23-year-old forward Jonathan Kuminga becomes eligible to be traded. Kuminga’s name has been floated in various scenarios, and while nothing is imminent, the Warriors’ front office has some big decisions to make.
If they’re serious about reshaping the roster and giving Kerr a more streamlined rotation, a consolidation trade could be on the table. And if that happens, Spencer’s standard deal could be part of the fallout.
But make no mistake - Spencer isn’t just riding the wave of roster mechanics. He’s earning this opportunity on the hardwood.
Over his last five games, he’s averaging 15.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 5.4 assists while shooting an eye-popping 54.4% from the field and 57.1% from beyond the arc. Those numbers don’t just jump off the page - they scream efficiency and poise, especially for a player still technically on a two-way deal.
This isn’t Spencer’s first brush with a standard contract, either. He was converted late last season following the Warriors’ massive 4-for-1 deal that brought in Jimmy Butler.
But this time, the circumstances are different. This isn’t about clearing space - it’s about rewarding production.
Spencer has now logged 63 regular season games with Golden State over the past three years, quietly carving out a niche as a steady, versatile backcourt presence. While it’s still unclear how long he’ll remain in the starting five - especially after the Warriors’ recent stumble against Minnesota - what is clear is this: barring something unforeseen, Pat Spencer will be on the main roster before the season wraps.
For a team searching for consistency and depth, Spencer’s emergence couldn’t come at a better time. He’s playing with confidence, fitting seamlessly into Kerr’s motion-heavy offense, and showing he belongs. The Warriors may have started the season with questions about their guard depth, but Spencer is answering them - one game at a time.