The Brooklyn Nets made a significant trade on Sunday, sending veteran wing Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for point guard D'Angelo Russell, young forward Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round draft picks. This trade marks a strategic move for the Nets as they continue to build a future-focused roster. The deal enhances Brooklyn's already impressive draft capital, bringing the team’s total to 31 picks over the next seven years, including 15 first-round picks and 16 second-round selections.
Following the trade, the Nets find themselves $677,000 below the luxury tax threshold, with $1.9 million in space under the first apron. D'Angelo Russell, who previously played for the Nets and made his only All-Star appearance during the 2018-19 season, is on an expiring contract worth $18.7 million. His performance this season with the Lakers included averages of 12.4 points and 4.7 assists per game.
Brooklyn's recent trades, which have included the departure of Dennis Schröder to the Golden State Warriors, indicate a clear strategy of acquiring future assets while offloading veteran players. As the Nets aim to develop their young talent, including players like Cam Thomas and Noah Clowney, they are expected to remain active in the trade market, particularly with the upcoming February 6 deadline approaching.
