The Los Angeles Lakers have made a significant move in the trade market by swapping D'Angelo Russell and three second-round picks for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton from the Brooklyn Nets. This trade reflects the Lakers' attempt to balance their roster while also considering the future as LeBron James approaches 40. The Lakers have been cautious in their asset management, especially with the decline of James and the injury-prone nature of Anthony Davis. With this trade, they aim to enhance their perimeter defense, which has been a critical need since Jarred Vanderbilt's injuries.
Finney-Smith is seen as a perfect fit, providing shooting and defensive capabilities alongside new backcourt starter Max Christie. This deal allows the Lakers to support their star duo of James and Davis while also giving younger players like Christie and Austin Reaves more responsibility. Although the Lakers are not yet championship contenders, this trade provides them with flexibility and depth, saving approximately $3.5 million and allowing for future improvements.
On the other hand, the Brooklyn Nets are in a rebuilding phase, having traded away key veterans like Dennis Schroder and now Finney-Smith. The Nets aim to tank for better draft positioning, but bringing in Russell poses a risk of stabilizing a team that needs to lose games. While the Nets might have received less than expected for Finney-Smith, the trade aligns with their strategy of shedding talent to facilitate a rebuild. Overall, the Lakers are viewed positively for this trade, while the Nets receive a more critical evaluation for their approach.
