On a post-Christmas Sunday, the Los Angeles Lakers made headlines with a significant trade that could enhance their playoff aspirations. According to reports from Moneyline, the Lakers have exchanged D'Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks with the Brooklyn Nets in return for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. The specific second-round picks involved in the deal are from the Lakers' own selections in 2027, 2030, and 2031.

Dorian Finney-Smith, who has been frequently mentioned in trade discussions since joining the Nets during the 2022-23 season, is recognized as a solid three-and-D player. This season, Finney-Smith has been performing impressively, averaging 10.4 points, 2.4 three-pointers made, and 0.9 steals in 29 minutes per game while shooting 43.5 percent from beyond the arc. Given his contributions, it's not surprising that the Nets were hoping to secure better draft compensation prior to this trade, especially after reportedly seeking a first-round pick from the Memphis Grizzlies for his services just a day earlier.

The addition of Finney-Smith is seen as a potentially advantageous move for the Lakers, particularly in the context of their current roster, which features superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Finney-Smith does not demand extensive touches or ball-handling opportunities, allowing for greater utilization of James and guard Austin Reaves. His experience as a reliable catch-and-shoot option is expected to enhance the Lakers' offensive strategies. Furthermore, he provides a much-needed defensive upgrade for a team that is currently ranked in the lower tier of the league in points allowed. Meanwhile, Shake Milton, while not the centerpiece of the trade, adds guard depth; his performance has shown that he may surpass Laker Gabe Vincent in contributing off the bench.