Lakers Swap Players with Nets, Add Shooting and Defense

In a surprise move, the Lakers traded away D’Angelo Russell and sent three second-round picks to the Brooklyn Nets. In return, they acquired Dorian Finney-Smith, a skilled forward known for his three-point shooting and defense. This swap allows the Lakers to gain some much-needed flexibility under the salary cap. Dorian Finney-Smith, a 6-foot-7 forward, is having a solid season. He’s shooting 43. 5% from behind the arc and averaging 10. 4 points and 4. 6 rebounds per game. With Finney-Smith on board, the Lakers have another versatile player who can help strengthen their thin frontcourt. The Lakers will have to figure out where Finney-Smith fits in their lineup. He could possibly replace either Rui Hachimura or Max Christie in the starting lineup. Finney-Smith has been a reliable starter since the 2019-20 season, so his presence could significantly boost the team's performance. The trade also sent Maxwell Lewis to the Nets. Lewis, a second-round pick from 2023, struggled to find a consistent role with the Lakers and spent most of his time in the G-League. Additionally, the Lakers obtained Shake Milton, a reserve guard averaging 7. 4 points per game. Milton is known for his three-point shooting and ability to score off the bench. This trade brings a lot of changes for the Lakers. They are now more flexible under the salary cap and have added valuable players to their roster. The Lakers will take on the Cleveland Cavaliers next, who are currently leading the NBA with the best record.