There are no shortage of rumors when it comes to the Los Angeles Lakers’ potential moves this offseason. While The Lakers are waiting on LeBron James to make a decision; in the interim, they may look into possible moves to strengthen their core.
Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report made four predictions about potential NBA deals in the upcoming months. The Brooklyn Nets and the Lakers are reportedly close to reaching an agreement. The Lakers trade Doran Finney-Smith to the Nets in exchange for Rui Hachimura and the 17th overall choice in the 2024 NBA draft.
“Lakers supporters will undoubtedly roll their eyes at this proposal as they’ve been dreaming of adding a third star to the mix.” Buckley explained in a post published on June 1, 2024, under the heading “Fresh Predictions from NBA Trade and Offseason Rumors.” “Since Finney-Smith isn’t a superstar, some may question whether he’s a good enough upgrade to warrant the No. 17 pick, which is subject to change on draft night.
When considering fit, Buckley continued, “there might not be much of a difference between the two forwards in a vacuum, but Finney-Smith’s three-and-D game could be much more impactful than Hachimura’s score-first style.” “L.A. needs more shooting, stronger defensive perimeter protection, and more two-way talent. Finney-Smith in his prime fulfills all three requirements.
Lakers Rumors: Trading for Nets Forward Dorian Finney-Smith Does Not Offer Much of an Upgrade
It is fair to wonder if Finney-Smith is an upgrade to Hachimura, especially when the Lakers are parting with the No. 17 pick in this trade. This may not be perceived as a strong draft, but the pick has value as a potential role player on an affordable rookie contract. Los Angeles could also package this selection as part of a bigger trade.
Finney-Smith’s four-year, $55.5 million contract has two seasons left on it. The veteran has a player option to become a free agent in 2025 and a $14.9 million cap charge in 2024–2025.
In contrast, Hachimura’s three-year, $51 million contract has two seasons left on it. Next season, the forward will be subject to a $17 million cap charge.
In 68 games this season, Hachimura averaged 13.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game while shooting 42.2% from three-point range. Throughout 68 games, including 56 starts, Finney-Smith averaged a respectable 8.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. The Lakers’ prospects of contending are not much increased by this move, on paper.
Lakers News: LA Expected to Be ‘Aggressive on the Trade Market’
Much of the Lakers offseason hinges on what James does in the coming months. James can opt out of his current deal to become a free agent this offseason.
The Athletic’s Jovan Buha reported that the Lakers are expected to be “aggressive on the trade market.” It remains It remains to be seen if the franchise will focus more on signing role players like Finney-Smith or go star-hunting.
In an article published on May 30 headlined “Lakers’ offseason centers on one question: Trade for star or upgrade supporting cast?” Buha went into detail, stating, “The Lakers are expected to be aggressive on the trade market, as The Athletic previously reported.” “Lakers general manager and vice president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka made a hint about the 2024 trade deadline, saying that the team’s ability to maneuver around the draft, which starts on June 26, and their ability to trade three of their first-round picks (2024 or 2025, 2029, and 2031), played a role in the organization’s decision not to make a deal at that time.”
