The Golden State Warriors don't always need Pat Spencer to play big minutes, but occasionally, he's called upon to make plays when some of the stars are out.
With Jimmy Butler's season over, Spencer is now one spot closer in the rotation to regular minutes, too.
In four of the last five games, he's played single-digit minutes. But on Jan. 26 against the Timberwolves, he played 34 minutes as others sat out.
Golden State certainly trusts Spencer enough to keep putting him on the floor, and that raises a key contract decision shortly.
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Spencer only has two games left of eligibility on his two-way contract, according to Spotrac's Keith Smith.
That means if the former college lacrosse superstar plays two more games at the NBA level this season, he'll be ineligible for any more in the current state of his contract.
The Warriors do have a path to remedy that. They could sign Spencer to a standard contract for the rest of the season.
That does require open roster space, though, so it could come in conjunction with another Warriors move.
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It's the week for such moves, at least, given that the NBA trade deadline is Thursday.
Injuries can also help create the necessary space.
One way or another, the Warriors will likely get Spencer onto a standard contract for the rest of the season. There's always a chance it takes a few extra days to get done.
But if Golden State wants to be able to use Spencer for occasional minutes down the stretch, it's a deal they'll have to figure out.
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