In one of the first blockbuster trades of the NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers have addressed their glaring need for wing depth and defensive flexibility by acquiring Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton from the Brooklyn Nets. In exchange, the Lakers are sending D’Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks, according to ESPN Insider Shams Charania.
The Lakers bring in two valuable contributors with this trade. Dorian Finney-Smith, a quintessential 3-and-D wing, is averaging 10.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game while shooting an impressive 45.9% from the field and 43.5% from three-point range.
Shake Milton adds further depth to the backcourt, offering strong defensive skills and versatility. Milton has been averaging 7.4 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game while shooting 46.5% from the field and 38.9% from beyond the arc. Together, these two players enhance the Lakers’ ability to compete on both ends of the court.
For D’Angelo Russell, his struggles this season made the decision to move him less surprising. Averaging 12.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 4.7 assists while shooting 41.5% from the field and a disappointing 33.3% from deep, Russell has been inconsistent.
His $18.7 million expiring contract, provided significant value as a trade chip. Maxwell Lewis, included in the deal, is a promising talent but has yet to carve out a major role in the rotation. By sending three second-round picks to Brooklyn, the Lakers further sweetened the deal, allowing them to secure two pieces that address key needs.
The Lakers have been linked to the 3-and-D wing for weeks, and this is an ideal trade. He brings elite perimeter defense, size, and reliable three-point shooting (43.5%), making him a perfect fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Finney-Smith’s ability to guard multiple positions addresses a significant need for a Lakers team that has lacked defensive versatility on the wing.
Shake Milton bolsters the Lakers’ guard rotation with his defensive capabilities and efficient scoring off the bench. Known for his ability to play both on and off the ball, Milton provides depth and flexibility in the backcourt. His 38.9% shooting from beyond the arc adds another reliable floor-spacing option.
This move not only improves the Lakers’ roster but also reduces their luxury tax bill. Before the trade, the Lakers were projected to pay $53.2 million in taxes. Post-trade, the tax bill drops to $42 million, giving them added financial flexibility.
For the Nets, this trade is a strategic move to stockpile draft capital and maintain financial flexibility. With Russell’s expiring contract, Brooklyn gains $2.6 million in cap space under the tax and $3.8 million below the first apron. The addition of Maxwell Lewis provides a developmental piece for their future.
Most importantly, Brooklyn’s cache of draft picks grows to an astounding 31 selections over the next seven years, including 15 first-rounders. The Nets are clearly building for the future, leveraging trades to maintain a competitive roster while preparing for long-term success.
This trade positions the Lakers as legitimate contenders in the Western Conference. Currently sitting at 18-13 and fifth in the West, the team has addressed critical needs. With Finney-Smith and Milton providing defensive tenacity and shooting, the Lakers now have a more balanced roster to complement their star duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
The move signals the Lakers’ commitment to contending this season while preserving flexibility for future roster moves. As the trade deadline approaches, Los Angeles could still explore additional opportunities to enhance their championship aspirations.
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