Lakers Make a Splash in the Trade Market with Impressive New Additions
*December 30th, Beijing Time - According to renowned journalist Shams, the Lakers and Nets have completed a significant trade. The Lakers acquire Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton, while the Nets receive D'Angelo Russell, Maxey Lewis, and three second-round picks (from 2027, 2030, and 2031, all from the Lakers).*
*The trade has sparked intense discussion among American media outlets, with some experts expressing concerns that the addition of Finney-Smith may not live up to expectations, drawing parallels to the underwhelming tenure of Russell Westbrook. However, these worries are unfounded; Finney-Smith is a perfect fit for the Lakers, unlike Westbrook, he does not require significant ball possession. It's important to remember that any quality 3&D player has seamlessly integrated alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis without compatibility issues.*
*Finney-Smith has averaged 10.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists this season, boasting a remarkable 43.5% three-point shooting accuracy. He excels in perimeter defense and possesses versatile defensive capabilities. Finney-Smith played a pivotal role in the Mavericks' 2022 Western Conference Finals, transitioning into a valuable spot-up shooter and even utilized as a small-ball center upon joining the Nets.*
*Shake Milton, another new addition, is more than just a throw-in. Averaging 7.4 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists this season, with a 38.9% three-point shooting rate, Milton contributes both on-ball and off-ball skills, bolstering the Lakers' guard rotation with his strong defensive presence and efficient scoring off the bench.*
*This trade significantly benefits LeBron James and Anthony Davis, allowing the Lakers to field a starting lineup featuring James, Reeves, Hachimura, Smith, and Davis. James, a natural playmaker, could return to the point guard position after five years, a move that last helped the Lakers secure the championship in 2020. With Smith's protection, Davis' rim protection will be greatly enhanced, enabling him to focus more on offense.*
*While the Lakers lose the offensively inclined but defensively weak Russell, they gain two well-rounded championship contenders who contribute an average of 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists combined, integrating seamlessly with the team. This trade only cost the Lakers expendable assets and second-round picks, securing immediate impact players while optimizing the salary structure. The combined salaries of Finney-Smith and Milton fall below Russell's 18.7million,savingtheLakersover10 million in luxury tax payments and providing flexibility for future moves, making it likely that the Lakers will pursue another major trade before the deadline.*
*The Western Conference this year is wide open, with young contenders in the upper half and established powerhouses in the lower half, leading to significant playoff unpredictability. Consequently, mid-season arms races become crucial. The Lakers have initiated their roster upgrade, and other Western teams will undoubtedly follow suit, setting the stage for an impending bidding war.*