Yesterday, the highly anticipated Los Angeles Lakers completed a blockbuster trade, reaching a deal with the Eastern Conference's Brooklyn Nets. The Lakers acquired Finney-Smith and Milton, sending Russell, Lewis, and three second-round picks (2027, 2030, 2031). The biggest gain for the Lakers in this trade is undoubtedly Finney-Smith, as they targeted his exceptional 3D attributes for this major transaction.
Finney-Smith is an excellent 3D player, boasting not only solid defense but also an impressive three-point shooting percentage. His career three-point shooting rate exceeds 44%, making him a sharpshooter-level forward. Even Magic Johnson was thrilled by the Lakers' acquisition of Finney-Smith. In this trade, the Lakers did not part with significant assets beyond Russell, not even giving up a first-round draft pick.
What many may have overlooked is that Milton, who came over in the trade with Finney-Smith, is also an outstanding role player. Some might think Milton was just an extra piece in this trade, easily overlooked. However, judging from his actual performance this season, Milton has proven himself capable of being a reliable rotation player. He simply did not receive ample playing time with the Nets.
Milton had limited opportunities at the start of the season with the Nets, but as his playing time increased, so did his performance. Over the last 15 games, Milton averaged 24.6 minutes per game, scoring 11.2 points, grabbing 2.7 rebounds, dishing out 3.1 assists, and making 0.9 steals, with a field goal percentage of 47.3%, a three-point percentage of 38.9%, and a free throw percentage of 76.7%.
Notably, in the past two games, Milton scored 20 points with 2 rebounds and 1 steal against the Bucks, going 7-for-10 from the field, 4-for-6 from three-point range, and 2-for-3 from the free-throw line. Against the Spurs, he scored 16 points with 3 rebounds, 12 assists, and 1 steal, going 5-for-9 from the field, 3-for-6 from three-point range, and 3-for-4 from the free-throw line.
Milton's main drawback is his slender physique, but his three-point shooting and transition abilities are commendable. This trade has reminded many of the deal years ago when the Cavaliers traded for Shumpert and JR Smith. At that time, Shumpert was the main target, while JR was considered an extra piece; however, JR later became James' most reliable bodyguard. Will Milton become a replica of JR, serving as another bodyguard for James? That remains to be seen and is certainly something to look forward to.
Regardless, the Lakers have undoubtedly made a profitable trade, as they have acquired two practical players at a minimal cost, and Pelinka has finally shown some boldness.