The Los Angeles Lakers would love to add a third star, but they may opt instead to build depth around Anthony Davis and LeBron James by poaching a couple of starter-level guys from the Brooklyn Nets.
On Monday, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz envisioned a deal that would have the Lakers sending Brooklyn a package of D’Angelo Russell, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Cam Reddish, Christian Wood, and a 2029 first-rounder in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith and Dennis Schröder.
“At the heart of the Lakers’ many issues is a defense that ranks 27th overall (117.7 rating),” Swartz said.
“As much as Los Angeles may desire a third star, getting a wing who can guard multiple positions at a high level and knock down shots is a more realistic goal.”
“Finney-Smith is averaging 10.7 points, 4.3 rebounds and connecting on 42.2 percent of his threes for the Nets this season while playing his usual stellar defense. He’d be a candidate to start in L.A. in a frontline with LeBron James and Anthony Davis.”
“Schröder should be familiar with the Lakers after playing for them in 2020-21 and 2022-23, and he would give the team another veteran ball-handler who can take playmaking pressure off of James.”
“The rebuilding Nets collect a lightly protected future first-round pick, can try to rehab Russell’s value and pick up 21-year-old Hood-Schifino, the No. 17 overall pick in 2023.”
“It’s a win-win for two franchises that have different goals this season and beyond.”
Should Lakers GM Rob Pelinka call Brooklyn and get a deal like this in the works?
More NBA: Lakers predicted to trade Dalton Knecht to Heat in desperate move
