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Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka issued a statement addressing the trade that sent D’Angelo Russell and rookie Maxwell Lewis to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. Pelinka thanked the departing players and expressed enthusiasm about the new additions.

“We want to thank D’Angelo for his second stint with us, where we celebrated some great moments and accomplishments on the court together,” Pelinka stated, per Mike Trudell. “We are thrilled to add the physicality, toughness, and elite shooting that Dorian Finney-Smith will bring. We also value Shake Milton’s playmaking and can’t wait for our fans to see both players in action.”

The trade includes the Lakers sending Russell, Lewis, and three second-round draft picks to Brooklyn. This move significantly strengthens Los Angeles’ roster, adding much-needed depth on the wing and in the backcourt.

Finney-Smith, a versatile forward, is enjoying a career-high 44% shooting from three-point range this season. Known for his defensive versatility, Finney-Smith brings a skill set that addresses the Lakers’ need for a reliable two-way player.

Milton, a proven scorer and playmaker, offers depth in the guard rotation. Milton, who is under a team-friendly contract with two non-guaranteed years, adds offensive consistency off the bench.

The trade also provides financial flexibility for the Lakers. Moving Russell’s expiring $36 million contract saves Los Angeles $15 million in salary and luxury tax penalties. The deal increases the Lakers’ flexibility under the NBA’s new second-apron restrictions, giving them $3.5 million in space.

Russell, 28, averaged 12.4 points, 4.7 assists, and 2.8 rebounds this season but struggled to find consistency in his second stint with the Lakers.

Lewis, the Lakers’ second-round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, heads to Brooklyn as a developmental prospect. The rookie has shown flashes of potential in limited playing time and could be part of the Nets’ long-term plans.

Finney-Smith, who has started 20 games this season, is averaging 10.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. His ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions complements Lakers stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Milton, 28, adds bench depth for Los Angeles, averaging 7.4 points and 2.4 assists in 18.2 minutes per game this season. His scoring ability and contract flexibility make him a valuable asset for the Lakers’ playoff push.