Lakers Trade D'Angelo Russell To Nets For Dorian Finney-Smith

The Los Angeles Lakers have traded D'Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets. This deal, initially reported by Shams Charania of ESPN, involves the Lakers receiving Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton from the Nets. Additionally, the Lakers are sending Maxwell Lewis and three second-round draft picks to Brooklyn.

Russell, who began his career with the Lakers as the second overall pick in the 2015 NBA draft, has played for several teams including the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves. This season, he started 10 games for the Lakers, averaging 12.4 points and 4.7 rebounds over 29 games. His return to Brooklyn marks a reunion, having previously played there during the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons.

Finney-Smith has been a consistent starter for the Nets this season, participating in all 20 games with averages of 10.4 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. Notably, he is shooting a career-high 43.5% from beyond the arc, adding an outside scoring threat to the Lakers' lineup. Finney-Smith joined Brooklyn following a trade involving Kyrie Irving in 2023.

Shake Milton has contributed to Brooklyn's efforts this season by averaging 7.4 points, 2.4 assists, and 1.9 rebounds across 27 games. Meanwhile, Lewis had limited playtime with Los Angeles, appearing in just seven games with an average of 4.1 minutes per game.

The trade comes as both teams experience contrasting fortunes in their respective divisions. The Lakers have climbed to first place in the Pacific Division after winning five of their last six games, improving their record to 18-13. Conversely, the Nets have struggled recently, losing nine of their last twelve games and dropping to a record of 12-19.

Russell's previous stint with Brooklyn was marked by impressive performances during the 2018-19 season when he averaged 21.1 points and seven assists per game and earned his only All-Star selection.

This transaction highlights strategic moves by both franchises as they aim to strengthen their rosters for upcoming challenges in the league season ahead.