Dorian Finney Smith Traded to the LA Lakers. NBA Breaking News.

The Los Angeles Lakers have traded experienced point guard D’Angelo Russell and three second-round picks to the Brooklyn Nets for wing Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton. This trade concludes Russell’s turbulent second stint with the Lakers, which has been characterized by continuous trade speculation as the team has found it challenging to replicate its success from the 2023 Western Conference finals.

In return, the Lakers acquire Finney-Smith, a reliable supporting wing who fulfills the Lakers' needs. Although his 3-point shooting has been somewhat erratic, Finney-Smith is currently converting 43. 5% of his 3-point attempts this season, and he achieved that while playing for a Nets team with fairly limited offensive creation. Now, he will benefit from LeBron James setting him up for deep shots, possibly recapturing the success he experienced with Luka Doncic on the Dallas Mavericks.

On the defensive end, Finney-Smith is a tall and robust 6-foot-7 wing. Although he may not be as quick as he once was in his career, he is likely to create a good combination with Max Christie, who is now 7-2 as a starter this season. Christie may not be as physically strong as Finney-Smith, but he is better equipped to guard smaller guards, and now that his shooting has become consistent, the two are expected to form a versatile pair of supporting wings alongside James, Anthony Davis, and Austin Reaves, who are serving as the team's main scorers.

Dorian Finney-Smith to the LA Lakers? Now that's an intriguing prospect! Finney-Smith has been a defensive powerhouse with the Mavericks, known for his versatility and ability to guard multiple positions. Imagine him alongside LeBron and AD—his defensive tenacity could elevate the Lakers' perimeter defense significantly. Plus, he’s not just a defender; he can stretch the floor with his shooting, adding another layer to the Lakers' offense.

This trade could also help balance the roster, giving them a reliable wing who can contribute on both ends. With the Lakers aiming for another championship run, adding a player like Finney-Smith could be the missing piece. It’s all about finding that right synergy, and he might just bring the grit and hustle that the Lakers need to reclaim their spot at the top.