Lakers Acquire Dorian Finney-Smith in Trade with Nets
Trade Details
The Los Angeles Lakers finally landed wing Dorian Finney-Smith, a "three-and-D" player the team has coveted for more than a season, by sending out D’Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks to the Brooklyn Nets. The Lakers also acquired reserve guard Shake Milton in the deal, which helped them trim nearly $3 million in payroll and gives them flexibility under the second salary cap apron.
About Dorian Finney-Smith
The trade gives the Lakers a 6-foot-7 forward in Finney-Smith who is shooting 43.5% from three-point range on 5.4 attempts per game and adds to their thin frontcourt. Finney-Smith, 31, is averaging 10.4 points and 4.6 rebounds in 20 games. He is known for being a reliable three-point shooter and playing strong, versatile defense.
Impact on Lakers’ Roster
The Lakers will need to decide how Finney-Smith slots into their rotation and whether he replaces either Rui Hachimura or Max Christie in the starting lineup. Finney-Smith essentially has been a full-time starter since the 2019-20 season, when he established himself as a reliable three-point shooter playing for Dallas.
End of Russell’s Tenure
The trade ends a long stretch of uncertainty for Russell and the Lakers, with the former No. 2 overall pick seemingly being on the trading block since the Lakers reacquired him in the trade that sent out Russell Westbrook in 2023. Russell helped the Lakers reach the Western Conference finals that season, and his play in the second half of last season helped push them to 47 wins. He set the team record for threes in a season with 226.
Conclusion
The trade marks a significant change for the Lakers, bringing in a new piece to help strengthen their frontcourt and add depth to their bench. The team will need to adjust their rotation and find a place for Finney-Smith, but this move has the potential to pay off in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did the Lakers trade D’Angelo Russell?
A: The Lakers traded Russell to make room for Finney-Smith and to trim payroll and gain flexibility under the second salary cap apron.
Q: What is Dorian Finney-Smith’s shooting percentage from three-point range?
A: Finney-Smith is shooting 43.5% from three-point range on 5.4 attempts per game.
Q: What is Shake Milton’s role on the team?
A: Milton is a reserve guard who is averaging 7.4 points in 27 games and is viewed by scouts as a streaky second-unit shooter with the ability to get the ball to the basket.
Q: What is the Lakers’ current record?
A: The Lakers have a record of 18-13 and are set to play the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday.
