The Los Angeles Lakers have traded D'Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. This trade marks a strategic move for both teams, with the Lakers gaining defensive versatility and the Nets acquiring valuable draft assets. The trade highlights a shift in the NBA trade landscape, with second-round picks becoming more valuable under the new collective bargaining agreement.
In a significant NBA trade, the Los Angeles Lakers have sent D'Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks to the Brooklyn Nets. In return, the Lakers acquire Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. This move is poised to reshape both teams' rosters as they pursue different strategic goals. The trade highlights the evolving dynamics of the NBA trade market, especially in light of recent changes to the collective bargaining agreement.
The Los Angeles Lakers have traded veteran guard D'Angelo Russell, forward Maxwell Lewis, and three future second-round draft picks to the Brooklyn Nets. In return, the Lakers receive forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton. Russell, who was averaging 12.4 points per game this season, returns to the Nets, where he previously played and earned an All-Star selection. The trade provides the Lakers with Finney-Smith, a versatile 3-and-D player known for his defensive prowess and career-high 43.5% shooting from beyond the arc this season. Shake Milton, averaging 7.4 points and 2.4 assists, adds depth to the Lakers' backcourt. This move offers the Lakers flexibility, both in terms of roster versatility and salary cap management, while the Nets gain valuable draft capital and salary cap space for future moves[1][2].
This trade marks a strategic pivot for both the Lakers and the Nets. For the Lakers, acquiring Finney-Smith and Milton addresses their need for defensive versatility and shooting, which have been areas of concern. Finney-Smith's ability to guard multiple positions and his 3-point shooting complement the Lakers' core players, including LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The Lakers also gain salary cap flexibility, moving below the second apron and saving $15 million in luxury tax. For the Nets, the trade aligns with their long-term rebuilding strategy, as they acquire additional draft assets and cleaner salary commitments. With 31 draft picks over the next seven years, the Nets are well-positioned to rebuild and potentially make future trades[3][4].
The trade between the Lakers and Nets is indicative of shifting dynamics in the NBA trade market, influenced by the league's new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Under the new CBA, first-round draft picks have become more valuable due to restrictions on high-spending teams, making second-round picks a more common trade currency. The Nets' decision to accept multiple second-round picks instead of demanding a first-rounder for Finney-Smith reflects this trend. Teams are now more cautious with their first-round picks, especially those with high-value contracts. This shift could affect future trades, as teams balance the need for immediate talent with long-term financial flexibility[5][3].
The trade between the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets marks a pivotal moment for both franchises, reflecting broader trends in the NBA trade market. The Lakers bolster their roster with defensive versatility and shooting, while the Nets continue their rebuilding process with valuable draft assets. This trade highlights the increasing importance of second-round picks under the new CBA, as teams navigate the challenges of maintaining competitive rosters within financial constraints. As the trade deadline approaches, this deal could set the tone for future transactions across the league.
""We want to thank D'Angelo for his second stint with us, where we celebrated some great moments and accomplishments on the court together."" - Rob Pelinka
""With this trade, we are thrilled to add the physicality, toughness and elite shooting that Dorian Finney-Smith will bring to our core."" - Rob Pelinka