The Los Angeles Lakers have finally moved D’Angelo Russell, ending weeks of speculation about his future. The Lakers sent D’Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. This trade addresses Los Angeles’ defensive struggles and gives Brooklyn a chance to revamp its offense amid its tank for the number one pick in the loaded 2025 draft.
D’Angelo Russell’s Nets Saving Grace And Ben Simmons’ Limbo
Why the Lakers Moved Russell
Russell had fallen out of favor in Los Angeles. His defensive lapses cost him his starting role under head coach J.J. Redick. With LeBron James nearing the twilight of his career, the Lakers needed players who complement their timeline.
Finney-Smith provides an immediate upgrade on defense. The Lakers’ 21st-ranked defense gains a versatile wing capable of guarding multiple positions. Milton adds a reliable secondary ball-handler on a team that sorely needs offensive depth.
By moving Russell’s expiring $18.6 million contract, the Lakers also gain financial flexibility under the second apron. They create $3.5 million in breathing room, which could prove valuable for future roster adjustments.
A Fresh Start for Russell
For Russell, this trade offers a golden opportunity to rebuild his reputation. Now on the Nets, he steps into an offense that desperately needs a floor general. Since trading Dennis Schröder, Brooklyn’s offense has been in freefall. Over the past seven games, the Nets rank 28th in offensive efficiency and dead last in points per game.
Russell enters a situation with low expectations, allowing him to play freely without the pressure of championship aspirations. This environment could help him regain his form and attract suitors in free agency. The Nets, with only $59 million committed to their 2025-26 payroll, could even decide to re-sign him if he performs well.
Brooklyn’s Tanking Strategy
Brooklyn’s focus remains on stockpiling assets and securing a high draft pick in 2025. The team has struggled to field a competitive product since Schröder’s trade, but Russell’s arrival could stabilize their offense. His ability to create plays and score efficiently might make the team watchable, even during a rebuilding phase.
Russell also fits Brooklyn’s tanking timeline. As a short-term solution, he provides enough value to keep the offense functional while the team prioritizes its draft position.
The Ben Simmons Conundrum
Ben Simmons finds himself in an uncertain position. With Schröder gone, Simmons was handed the keys to the offense. However, the results have been underwhelming. In his current role, Simmons has struggled to lead a functional offense, contributing to the team’s dismal record.
The Nets remain open to trading Simmons rather than buying him out of his $40.33m contract. His trade market value, however, is murky. Teams are hesitant to invest in a player with ongoing performance issues for such a hefty price.
What’s Next for Brooklyn?
Brooklyn’s future hinges on two factors: Russell’s performance and Simmons’ trade value. Russell’s presence gives the Nets a chance to experiment with lineups while evaluating their long-term plans. If he thrives, the Nets could flip him for more picks at the trade deadline.
Simmons’ situation is more complex. His inability to effectively lead in his role adds pressure to a front office focused on rebuilding. Solving his conundrum might prove essential to creating a coherent roster for 2025 and beyond. For now, Brooklyn leans into its tanking strategy, but both Russell and Simmons hold keys to the franchise’s immediate future.
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