In a notable mid-season trade, the Los Angeles Lakers have sent guard D’Angelo Russell and multiple second-round picks to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. The move signals the Lakers’ commitment to strengthening their roster with defensive versatility and consistent perimeter shooting.
For the Lakers, acquiring Finney-Smith addresses a pressing need for a reliable 3-and-D wing player. Known for his ability to guard multiple positions and hit timely three-pointers, Finney-Smith provides the defensive grit the team has sought. Shake Milton, meanwhile, adds depth to the backcourt as a capable scorer and playmaker off the bench.
Russell, who rejoined the Lakers in February 2023, struggled with consistency during his second stint in Los Angeles. Despite flashes of brilliance, his defensive lapses and streaky shooting made him a polarizing figure among fans and analysts. His move to Brooklyn marks a return to the franchise that initially drafted him as the second overall pick in 2015.
The trade has been met with optimism from the Lakers’ front office and coaching staff. Head coach Darvin Ham emphasized Finney-Smith’s potential impact, saying, “Dorian is the type of player every championship team needs—someone who brings toughness, defense, and can stretch the floor. He fits perfectly with our system.”
For the Nets, this trade bolsters their guard rotation with Russell’s playmaking and scoring abilities. Paired with emerging talent in Brooklyn’s young core, Russell has the opportunity to reestablish himself as a leader on the court. The addition of second-round picks also provides the franchise with future assets to continue rebuilding.
Finney-Smith has averaged 9.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game this season while shooting 37% from beyond the arc. His defensive metrics have consistently ranked among the league’s best for forwards. Milton, on the other hand, has been averaging 10.4 points and 3.2 assists while shooting 46% from the field, offering the Lakers a steady contributor in key moments.
The Lakers’ push for a playoff spot in the highly competitive Western Conference likely influenced the timing of this deal. Adding players with defined roles and playoff experience could provide the edge the team needs alongside superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
As for Russell, his return to Brooklyn presents a chance to rediscover the form that earned him an All-Star nod in 2019. The Nets remain focused on developing their young roster while staying competitive in the Eastern Conference.
This trade highlights both teams’ efforts to address immediate needs while planning for long-term success. The Lakers, in particular, are betting that Finney-Smith’s defensive prowess and Milton’s versatility will help solidify their playoff position.