Sun, Dec 29, 2024 at 4:30pm

LAKERS, NETS MAKE 4-PLAYER TRADE

The Los Angeles Lakers acquired forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton from the Brooklyn Nets for guard D'Angelo Russell, forward Maxwell Lewis, a conditional second-round draft pick in 2027, a second-round draft pick in 2030 and a second-round draft pick in 2031.

What does it give the Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers needed more depth behind Antonio Davis and LeBron James, who start at center and power forward, respectively. Finney-Smith is a capable and versatile veteran who can play all three positions up front. Milton is also a veteran who should be able to back up at both guard positions.

What does it give the Brooklyn Nets
Russell lost his starting job at point guard earlier this season, and now he ironically moves back to the Nets (where he played from 2017-18 to 2018-19 following a trade from the Lakers). Lewis is a young forward with untapped upside. This trade continues Brooklyn's long-range rebuild for the future.

Fantasy impact
Russell could be on the move again before this year's NBA trade deadline, but he might see more minutes before then. His short-term value could be on the way up, but he still comes with too much risk. None of Finney-Smith, Milton or Lewis will likely see enough playing time to be a fantasy factor in the second half of the NBA campaign. Pass on all three.