The Los Angeles Lakers have secured a trade for Dorian Finney-Smith from the Brooklyn Nets, despite initial expectations that he would join the Memphis Grizzlies. The Grizzlies, currently positioned as the second seed in the Western Conference, were keen on enhancing their roster ahead of the trade deadline, which led to a competitive bidding process for the veteran forward.

Brian Windhorst reported that the trade negotiations sparked tension between the Grizzlies and the Nets, highlighting the dissatisfaction stemming from how the situation unfolded. Ultimately, the Lakers' offer, which included D'Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks, provided greater value than what the Nets could have received from Memphis, which would have included John Konchar, Luke Kennard, and a heavily protected first-round pick.

The Memphis Grizzlies, spearheaded by star guard Ja Morant, are having a remarkable season with a record of 22-10, placing them second in the Western Conference. Despite their success, the team is actively looking to enhance their roster ahead of the NBA trade deadline. Recent reports indicate that the Grizzlies are in discussions with the Brooklyn Nets regarding a potential trade involving forward Dorian Finney-Smith.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the trade talks are centered around Memphis offering players John Konchar and Luke Kennard to the Nets in exchange for Finney-Smith. However, the Nets are reportedly seeking a first-round draft pick from the Grizzlies as part of the deal. In addition, if a trade materializes, Memphis is expected to receive second-round draft compensation as well.

Luke Kennard, known for his shooting prowess, has seen limited playing time this season due to the Grizzlies' deep guard rotation, averaging just 19.9 minutes per game over 20 appearances. His expiring contract makes him a likely candidate for the Nets to consider flipping should they acquire him. As the trade deadline approaches, this situation is one to keep an eye on, as it could significantly impact both teams.

The Brooklyn Nets are reportedly engaged in active trade discussions with the Memphis Grizzlies concerning forward Dorian Finney-Smith. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the proposed deal would see the Nets send Finney-Smith along with a second-round pick to Memphis in exchange for John Konchar and Luke Kennard. Furthermore, the Nets are looking to acquire a first-round pick from the Grizzlies as part of this transaction involving the seasoned swingman.

Memphis is currently enjoying a successful 2024-25 season, ranking second in the Western Conference with a 22-10 record. This performance has prompted Grizzlies general manager Zach Kleiman to seek an experienced player to bolster the roster, which features stars like Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane. Finney-Smith, who has a solid playoff experience with 35 starts, has proven to be a dependable shooter, averaging 10.4 points and 4.6 rebounds per game this season while maintaining impressive shooting percentages from the field and beyond the arc.

The Nets, on the other hand, find themselves in the 12th position in the Eastern Conference and are clearly prioritizing future development. They recently traded point guard Dennis Schröder to the Golden State Warriors, acquiring De'Anthony Melton and three second-round picks in return. Meanwhile, Konchar has seen limited action, averaging 2.8 points and 2.8 rebounds per game, while Kennard has contributed 7.5 points and 2.9 assists per game this season.

As the Grizzlies aim to make a playoff return after a disappointing 2023-24 season marred by injuries, they are reportedly keen on securing a veteran shooter to enhance their starting lineup.

As the NBA trade deadline approaches, several teams are exploring options to bolster their rosters. The Golden State Warriors have acquired Dennis Schroder, while the Los Angeles Lakers are eyeing a trade for Jonas Valanciunas to support LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Meanwhile, the Sacramento Kings are making Kevin Huerter and Trey Lyles available for trade as they seek role-player upgrades. The New Orleans Pelicans are open to offers but want to retain their young talent.

Trade discussions are heating up across the league, with teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and Chicago Bulls also looking to make moves.