Russell Traded: Lakers Get Finney-Smith

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Post on Dec 30, 2024

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Lakers Land Finney-Smith: A Trade That Shakes Up the Western Conference

The Los Angeles Lakers have made a significant move, acquiring Dorian Finney-Smith from the Dallas Mavericks in a trade that sends Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz (who are subsequently expected to waive him). This deal reshapes the Lakers' roster, injecting much-needed defensive grit and 3-point shooting, but also raises questions about the team's overall strategy.

What the Lakers Gain:

Finney-Smith is a proven commodity, a player known for his defensive intensity and consistent contributions on both ends of the court. His strengths include:

• Defensive Prowess: Finney-Smith is a tenacious defender, capable of guarding multiple positions. His presence will significantly bolster the Lakers' defensive capabilities, a weakness that has plagued them throughout the season. This is crucial for playoff contention.

• Reliable 3-Point Shooting: While not a high-volume shooter, Finney-Smith is a reliable three-point threat. His ability to space the floor will open up driving lanes for LeBron James and Anthony Davis, making the Lakers' offense more dynamic.

• Veteran Experience: Finney-Smith's playoff experience is invaluable. He's played in high-pressure situations, bringing a level of composure and leadership that will benefit the young Lakers' core.

What the Lakers Lose (and Gain in Return):

The obvious loss is Russell Westbrook, whose tenure in Los Angeles was marked by inconsistency and a lack of fit within the team's offensive system. However, the trade allows the Lakers to shed his significant salary, providing much-needed flexibility. More importantly, the team gains a player who far better complements their star players and overall team strategy.

Strategic Implications:

This trade signals a clear shift in the Lakers' approach. They've moved away from a reliance on star power alone, prioritizing a more balanced roster with defensive capabilities and complementary skill sets. The focus now appears firmly set on playoff contention, rather than solely relying on the scoring prowess of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Finney-Smith's Fit:

Finney-Smith's style of play perfectly complements the Lakers' existing roster. His defense shores up a glaring weakness, while his three-point shooting creates space for LeBron and AD to operate. He’s a role player who understands his role and excels at it, a crucial piece for a team aiming for a deep playoff run.

Potential Downsides:

While this trade looks promising, there are potential drawbacks:

• Offensive Limitations: Finney-Smith is not a high-volume scorer. The Lakers will still need to rely heavily on LeBron and AD for offensive production.

• Fit with the Roster: The integration of Finney-Smith into the Lakers’ system will be crucial. It remains to be seen how well he gels with the existing players.

Conclusion:

The acquisition of Dorian Finney-Smith is a bold move by the Lakers, a significant departure from their previous approach. It addresses a critical weakness, while also suggesting a focus on team balance and playoff success. While the future remains uncertain, the trade significantly improves the Lakers' chances of making a serious run in the playoffs. The time will tell if this trade proves to be a masterstroke or a missed opportunity, but based on current analysis, it appears to be a positive step forward for Los Angeles.