Lakers Shock NBA World: D'Angelo Russell Traded, Finney-Smith Acquired!

The Los Angeles Lakers have sent shockwaves through the NBA with a stunning trade that sent point guard D'Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton. The deal, first reported by ESPN's Shams Charania and confirmed by multiple sources, also included Maxwell Lewis and three future second-round picks heading to Brooklyn.

This trade signifies a significant shift in the Lakers' strategy, addressing a key weakness while potentially sacrificing some offensive firepower.

Finney-Smith: A Perfect Fit for the Lakers?

The Lakers have long sought a “three-and-D” player, and in Finney-Smith, they appear to have found their man. At 6-foot-7, he offers the defensive versatility the team desperately needed, capable of guarding multiple positions. His 44% three-point shooting percentage (a career high) is also a significant upgrade for a Lakers team consistently needing reliable outside threats. His contributions to the Nets, averaging 10.4 points and 4.6 rebounds while showcasing elite 3-point shooting prowess, clearly resonated with the Lakers' front office. Finney-Smith's experience playing for the Mavericks alongside Luka Doncic provides a blueprint of how he can contribute within a star-driven system, further justifying the trade.

Impact on the Lakers Rotation

The acquisition of Finney-Smith immediately raises questions about the Lakers' starting lineup. Will he replace Rui Hachimura or Max Christie? Finney-Smith's consistent starting role since 2019-20 suggests a likely insertion into the first unit, however the Lakers' coaching staff will likely take into account the recent performance of Max Christie who has averaged 16.3 points and 1.3 steals in his past three games, and 7.2 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game overall.

Russell's Return to Brooklyn

The trade marks D'Angelo Russell's return to the Brooklyn Nets after a previous stint in which he performed at an All-Star level during the 2018-19 season. His performance this season has seen a dip in scoring and three-point shooting, averaging a career-low 12.4 points and 33% from beyond the arc. The change of scenery might provide the environment he needs to regain his form. His 2023 performance was pivotal in propelling the Lakers to 47 wins and the conference finals; however, this season's decreased efficiency may have prompted the Lakers' front office to seek a more impactful trade. With his contract expiring, this trade ensures his departure while adding critical assets to their roster.

Milton's Addition to the Lakers' Second Unit

Shake Milton joins the Lakers as a player known for his defensive capabilities and playmaking skills off the bench. He's averaged 7.4 points and 2.4 assists, adding additional firepower and ball-handling experience to the second unit. His recent performances show signs of improvement, which could allow the Lakers' coaching staff to further optimize the team's dynamic.

The Nets' Perspective

The Nets' decision to trade Finney-Smith and Milton is likely influenced by their ongoing rebuild. They acquire three second-round draft picks, bolstering their assets for the future, and securing a considerable amount of cap space going into the offseason. The return of D'Angelo Russell, a former Net and All-Star, could also provide a stabilizing presence for a young team.

The Future of the Lakers and Nets

The impact of this trade remains to be seen. For the Lakers, it represents a gamble on Finney-Smith's continued shooting and defensive excellence. The trade was made with flexibility in mind, providing the Lakers with almost $3 million dollars in salary cap relief. The team is betting on the synergy between Finney-Smith’s defensive talents and Christie's offensive abilities. For the Nets, it's a move that prioritizes future draft capital over immediate contention. This trade allows the Nets to accumulate more draft picks (a total of 31 selections over the next seven years), strategically positioning the team for long-term success. The trade creates a more flexible roster while simultaneously creating a path for future growth. The long-term implications of this trade for both franchises remain to be seen. The next few months will give us much-needed clarity on the long-term implications of the deal, and whether the gamble will lead to playoffs or not. This season continues to provide many exciting moments of change, surprises and competitiveness.