The Los Angeles Lakers made significant waves this week with the announcement of their trade involving D’Angelo Russell and Maxwell Lewis, sending both to the Brooklyn Nets. The Lakers, searching for defensive strength and shooting capability, acquired Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton, alongside securing three second-round picks.
This trade was reported by ESPN's Shams Charania and marks Russell’s return to Brooklyn, where he previously played from 2017 to 2019. Once seen as a rising star during his initial stint with the Nets, Russell returns as a seasoned 10-year veteran aiming to revitalize his career. This season, he has averaged 12.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, but his role with the Lakers has diminished, having played primarily off the bench.
For the Lakers, acquiring Finney-Smith is particularly strategic. The forward is currently enjoying one of his best seasons yet, averaging 10.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and shooting at a career-high 43.5% from beyond the arc. Finney-Smith is well-regarded for his two-way play, embodying the Lakers’ need for a reliable defender capable of creating spacing on the floor. His ability to seamlessly fit within the team's system highlights the effort by Los Angeles to secure impactful players without parting ways with key assets.
Shake Milton, also coming from the Nets, will add depth to the Lakers' point guard position, particularly as Gabe Vincent grapples with recent injuries. Averaging 7.4 points and 2.4 assists this season, Milton is recognized for his steady play and potential to step up when required.
On the other side of the equation, the Nets recognized the value of this trade as they continue to pivot toward rebuilding their roster. Acquiring Russell not only brings back experience but also bolsters their scoring capabilities as they focus on the forthcoming draft and long-term strategy.
The Nets also landed three second-round selections — from 2027, 2030, and 2031 — as part of the deal, providing them potential assets to utilize for future trades or development. Given the Lakers' championship aspirations, these picks could turn out beneficial for the Nets as they seek to rejuvenate their roster.
The conversations leading up to this trade reveal the Lakers' intention to improve their team dynamics. Reports suggest they have been eyeing Finney-Smith for some time, recognizing his talents aligning with their needs. The deal is viewed as advantageous for both franchises, as it addresses immediate needs for the Lakers and offers the Nets potential for long-term growth.
Both teams have experienced significant changes lately, with the Lakers adjusting their roster to increase competitiveness against top-tier teams, and the Nets contemplating their course following recent roster shake-ups. Russell’s experience and familiarity with Brooklyn can reinvigorate his game, aiming for more than just personal accolades but contributing to team success.
With the NBA season well underway, fans and analysts will closely monitor how these changes impact each team’s performance. The Lakers, by adding pieces like Finney-Smith and Milton, appear poised to make significant strides this season, enhancing their chances to contend for the championship.
Meanwhile, for Russell, this trade is another chapter in his moving career — his fifth trade overall. He enters Brooklyn amid fluctuated expectations but retains the opportunity to reestablish his role as a central figure on the court. Given Brooklyn's transition, he will likely be expected to carry more responsibility as they navigate through this generational shift.
The Lakers will play their first game following this blockbuster trade against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where all eyes will be on how quickly Finney-Smith and Milton adjust to their new roles. Fans await to see if they can make immediate impacts as Los Angeles aims to solidify its standing among championship contenders.
This trade not only highlights the dynamic nature of NBA rosters but also foreshadows potential shifts as both franchises eye success — one amid playoff contention and the other focused on reshaping for the future.