Home Daily Gossip BREAKING: Lakers trade D’Angelo Russell to Nets for Dorian Finney-Smith

BREAKING: Lakers trade D’Angelo Russell to Nets for Dorian Finney-Smith

Photo: Peter Baba

The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed to trade D’Angelo Russell, rookie Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round draft picks to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton. NBA insider Shams Charania first reported the deal on Sunday.

The move bolsters the Lakers’ roster with much-needed wing depth. Finney-Smith, a defensive specialist and 3-point shooter, is having a career-best season from beyond the arc, hitting 44% of his attempts. His ability to guard multiple positions addresses one of Los Angeles’ pressing needs.

Milton also joins the Lakers, providing depth in the backcourt. Known for his scoring and playmaking ability, Milton comes on a team-friendly contract, with two non-guaranteed years remaining after this season.

Financially, the trade offers significant benefits for the Lakers. By moving Russell’s expiring $36 million contract, Los Angeles saves $15 million in salary and luxury tax penalties. ESPN Front Office insider Bobby Marks noted the deal increases the team’s flexibility under the NBA’s new second apron restrictions, raising their available margin from $30,000 to $3.5 million.

On the other side, the Brooklyn Nets acquire draft capital and manageable contracts. Russell, 28, is averaging 12.4 points, 4.7 assists, and 2.8 rebounds this season. However, he is reportedly a buyout candidate, as per NBA reporter Brett Siegel, suggesting Brooklyn views him as a short-term acquisition.

Another NBA insider, Michael Scotto, reports that neither Russell, nor the Nets are considering a buyout option.

Lewis, the Lakers’ second-round pick from the 2024 NBA Draft, provides the Nets with a developmental prospect. The 21-year-old rookie has shown potential in limited playing time, making him a valuable addition to Brooklyn’s future plans.

Finney-Smith, who has started in 20 games this season, is averaging 10.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. His presence gives Los Angeles another reliable floor spacer alongside stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Meanwhile, Milton, 28, has been averaging 7.4 points and 2.4 assists in 18.2 minutes per game.

For the Lakers, this trade signifies their commitment to competing for a championship this season. Currently sitting fifth in the Western Conference with an 18-13 record, Los Angeles has made strides to address weaknesses in shooting and defensive versatility.

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