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NBA Shake-Up: Hornets Release Dinwiddie, Bucks lock Up Green Long-Term
Hornets Make Roster Decision on Veteran Guard
The Charlotte Hornets have made a significant roster move just ahead of the regular season tip-off, announcing the release of veteran guard Spencer Dinwiddie on Thursday. This decision comes as the team aims to finalize its 15-player standard roster, requiring them to shed guaranteed salary before the season officially begins next week.
Dinwiddie, who joined the Hornets on a one-year, $3.6 million deal in early July, saw limited action in the preseason, appearing in just two games. While his time in Charlotte was brief, his NBA resume speaks volumes. last season, Dinwiddie was a crucial contributor for the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 14.3 points and 6.2 assists per game as a starter over 30 appearances. Across the entire 2024-25 season with Dallas,he posted 11 points,4.4 assists, and 2.6 rebounds in 79 games,showcasing his consistent production and versatility.
Entering his 12th year in the league,Dinwiddie was a key piece of the Mavericks’ 2022 Western Conference Finals squad,often providing a spark off the bench as a sixth man. His career statistics reflect a reliable scorer and playmaker, with averages of 13.0 points and 5.1 assists over 621 games (345 starts) for teams including the Pistons, Wizards, and Lakers.
This move by the Hornets highlights the tough decisions teams face during the preseason, balancing immediate roster needs with long-term strategic planning. For Dinwiddie, the search for a new team begins, with his experience likely to attract interest from clubs looking for veteran leadership and scoring punch.
Bucks Secure Key Piece: AJ Green Signs Extension
In a move that signals stability and confidence in their young talent, the Milwaukee Bucks have agreed to a fully guaranteed four-year contract extension with guard AJ Green, worth an estimated $45 million. This deal effectively keeps Green in Milwaukee through the 2029-2030 season, preventing him from hitting free agency at the end of the upcoming year.
The 26-year-old Green has steadily climbed the ranks since entering the league on a two-way contract in 2022. He has now established himself as a legitimate starter heading into the next NBA season. Last year,Green proved his worth by averaging 7.4 points in 73 games, including seven starts, demonstrating his growing role and impact on the team.
His emergence was notably notable during the playoffs, were he earned the trust of head coach Doc Rivers. Green was inserted into the starting lineup for a pivotal Game 5 against the Indiana Pacers, a testament to his development and the coaching staff’s belief in his abilities during high-stakes situations.
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