In a significant roster change, the Los Angeles Lakers have traded guard D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets. In return, the Lakers have acquired forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton, along with including forward Maxwell Lewis and three second-round draft picks in the deal.
The decision to trade Russell comes after a challenging season for the athlete under the guidance of new coach JJ Redick. Russell’s performance witnessed a decline, averaging a career-low 12.4 points, and he was moved from the starting lineup earlier in the season. His struggles on the court highlighted issues with consistency and shooting percentages, prompting the Lakers to rethink their strategy to strengthen their roster.
Dorian Finney-Smith arrives as a solution to the Lakers’ struggles on the wing, especially during the absence of key defender Jarred Vanderbilt due to injury. Finney-Smith’s contributions to the Nets were notable, with him securing 10.4 points and 4.6 rebounds per game while achieving a career-best 43.5% in 3-point shooting this season. Although he has struggled with injuries, his defensive strength and three-point accuracy make him a valuable asset.
Shake Milton, who is joining his sixth NBA team in just two years, is expected to add depth to the Lakers’ lineup. Milton has averaged 7.4 points and 2.4 assists for the Nets this season. This trade marks a continuation of the Lakers’ efforts to reshape their team dynamics with players who can provide reliable performance.
For Russell, this move marks his second trade to the Nets; his first stint included an All-Star selection, reflecting his potential and capabilities. His career, however, has been punctuated by multiple trades, five in total over seven and a half years. Russell’s ability to make an offensive impact will be crucial for the Nets, who have been one of the lower-scoring teams in the league this season.
The Nets, meanwhile, are undergoing their own restructuring, having recently traded Dennis Schröder to Golden State. With Russell’s contract expiring this summer, his future in Brooklyn may serve as a pivotal period for both player and team.
Maxwell Lewis, part of the trade package, was a second-round pick for the Lakers in 2023 but struggled to secure a permanent spot on the team, appearing in only 41 games primarily spent shuttling between the main roster and the G League. His inclusion in this trade reflects a broader strategy by the Lakers to recalibrate their player assets.
The trade between the Lakers and Nets represents a strategic shift for both franchises. While the Lakers aim to bolster their defense with new additions, the Nets hope to leverage Russell’s offensive skills to improve their scoring capabilities. This exchange highlights the fluid nature of team dynamics as each organization positions itself for future success in the league.
Source: Local10
