The Los Angeles Lakers have finalized a trade to acquire forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton from the Brooklyn Nets. In exchange, the Lakers sent D’Angelo Russell, rookie Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round draft picks to Brooklyn. The move is part of the Lakers’ effort to solidify their defensive identity and improve shooting, as Finney-Smith is renowned for his “3-and-D” skills.
Finney-Smith brings career-best stats this season, shooting 43.5% from three-point range, and is expected to complement LeBron James and Austin Reaves as a reliable option on both ends of the court. His versatility will also help cover for the absence of forward Jarred Vanderbilt, who may miss the rest of the season.
Shake Milton, another acquisition, adds bench scoring and depth to the Lakers’ rotation. Milton’s shooting consistency (38.9% from beyond the arc this season) makes him a valuable asset for offensive flexibility, especially with the Lakers looking to boost their bench performance.
The trade marks the Lakers’ commitment to returning to a defense-oriented, switchable style that was key to their 2020 championship run. Head coach JJ Redick has already expressed confidence in Finney-Smith’s defensive impact, planning to utilize him in crucial moments.
This deal also raises questions about the Lakers’ point guard position. With D’Angelo Russell gone, Austin Reaves may step into a more prominent playmaking role. His recent 16-assist game could be an indicator of the team’s faith in his ability to lead the offense.
Overall, the addition of Finney-Smith and Milton aligns with the Lakers’ aspirations for deep postseason success. The team remains active in exploring additional trades, including potential upgrades at the center position, to bolster their championship prospects.
