The Los Angeles Lakers have made a major roster move, trading D'Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round draft picks to the Brooklyn Nets for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. Reported by ESPN's Shams Charania on December 29, 2024, this deal marks a notable shift for the Lakers, who are currently positioned fifth in the competitive Western Conference with an 18-13 record. General manager Rob Pelinka had previously indicated he would assess the team's needs after 30 games, and this trade reinforces the Lakers' commitment to improving their performance this season.
Dorian Finney-Smith, the primary acquisition, is enjoying his best year to date, averaging 10.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, with impressive shooting percentages of 45.9% overall and 43.5% from three-point range. His addition is expected to address the Lakers' need for a 3-and-D wing player, something they have pursued for some time. Alongside Finney-Smith, Shake Milton adds depth to the guard rotation, contributing 7.4 points and 2.4 assists, with 38.9% shooting from the three-point line.
This trade not only improves the Lakers' roster but also alleviates some salary cap pressure. According to ESPN's Bobby Marks, by acquiring these players, the Lakers achieve much-needed flexibility below the second apron, which helps them manage their financial commitments effectively.
The departing Russell has faced challenges this season, displaying diminished production and finding himself frequently mentioned as potential trade bait. His time with the Lakers came to fruition as he heads back to Brooklyn on an expiring contract. Reports indicate he had been on the trade block for quite some time, making this exchange seem inevitable as both teams aim to recalibrate for the remainder of the season.
For the Nets, this trade enhances their draft assets, increasing their total second-round pick count to 16, giving them the strongest draft equity over the next seven seasons, with 15 first-round picks to boot. Yossi Gozlan noted, "Finney-Smith will become extension-eligible starting on February 12, 2025," which could play significant roles as Brooklyn continues to strategize its roster for future success.
This trade is particularly timely as the NBA approaches the February trade deadline, where teams frequently reassess their needs. This move by the Lakers could provide them the flexibility to pursue additional upgrades, particularly at center, which has been identified as another area needing reinforcement.
For now, the Lakers are optimistic about this trade's potential. It signifies their willingness to be active players on the trade market, especially after being cautious following previous high-profile acquisitions like Russell Westbrook. With Finney-Smith's reputation as both a defender and shooter, the Lakers hope to see improvements as they build toward their playoff prospects. Head coach JJ Redick may also be prompted to adjust the starting lineup to account for the new additions, potentially modifying the roles of current players like Max Christie.
All eyes will now be on how these changes will impact the team's dynamics and performance as they navigate through the season. The Lakers' decision to exchange valuable assets for immediate help is indicative of their ambition to re-establish themselves as serious contenders. Only time will reveal how effectively these new pieces mesh with the established stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
This blockbuster trade encapsulates not just the Lakers' current priorities, but also the shifting tides within the NBA as teams constantly look to maximize their chances for success, making it necessary to adapt strategies and players to match high expectations.
Moving forward, the Lakers will have to capitalize on this trade to position themselves advantageously as they make their push toward the playoffs. The expectation is clear: with Finney-Smith and Milton onboard, the team aims higher, and only the upcoming games will show the efficacy of this strategic decision.