A new report suggests that the Los Angeles Lakers are highly interested in a former Dallas Mavericks wing currently playing for the Brooklyn Nets.
According to Bleacher Report’s Andrew Peters, the Lakers are prioritizing a three-and-D wing in their trade aspirations who was a noted favorite of Luka Dončić during his time in Dallas.
“The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly interested in trading for a role player from the Brooklyn Nets,” Peters said on Monday.
“Per Clutch Point’s Anthony F. Irwin, the Lakers “checked in on Dorian Finney-Smith” last season and have been in “constant contact” with the Nets about him this season.”
Peters also acknowledged that the Lakers have been linked to Cam Johnson, Finney-Smith’s teammate on the Nets.
“Los Angeles is strong in most areas on the floor, but it needs a strong defender who is also a reliable three-point shooter. Finney-Smith could be exactly what the Lakers need.”
“The Nets also might be willing to part with Finney-Smith if the Lakers make them the right offer. After trading swingman Mikal Bridges this offseason, Brooklyn made it clear it’s going into rebuild mode, so it would likely give Los Angeles Finney-Smith in exchange for some future picks.”
“The Nets might be more hesitant to trade Johnson, who is averaging a career-high 19.1 points, as he could be viewed as a key part of their rebuild. Still, it could be worth it for the Lakers to make an offer as they pursue another championship.”
Would Finney-Smith provide the Lakers with what their rotation is missing currently, or should GM Rob Pelinka focus his deadline efforts elsewhere?