The Los Angeles Lakers have once again made headlines in the NBA, shaking up the league with a significant trade that has brought Luka Doncic to Hollywood. This move follows the team’s acquisition of Anthony Davis from the New Orleans Pelicans six years ago—a change that ultimately led to a championship victory.
Trade Details
According to Shams Charania from ESPN, the Lakers have executed a three-team deal that sends Davis to the Dallas Mavericks. This trade marks a pivotal moment for the Lakers, as they secure a new franchise player in Doncic, who, at just 25, is already a five-time All-NBA First Team selection and has an impressive resume that includes a scoring title and an NBA Finals appearance.
Doncic’s Impact
Doncic’s arrival in Los Angeles brings with it immense potential. If he maintains the level of performance he demonstrated with the Mavericks, fans may have a reason to celebrate an 18th championship banner in the near future. His playmaking ability and scoring prowess are expected to elevate the Lakers’ offensive dynamics significantly.
Reunion with Dorian Finney-Smith
One player who is particularly thrilled about Doncic’s trade is Dorian Finney-Smith, who will be reunited with his former teammate. The two played together in Dallas from the 2018-19 season through the 2022-23 season, during which time Finney-Smith developed into one of the league’s top 3-and-D forwards, shooting 37.4 percent from three-point range with Doncic facilitating his game.
Defensive Improvements
Since joining the Lakers at the end of December, Finney-Smith has played a crucial role in bolstering the team’s defense. The Lakers’ defensive rating has jumped from 21st to 8th in the league since January 1, thanks in large part to Finney-Smith’s contributions. When he is on the court, the Lakers allow only 105.8 points per 100 possessions, demonstrating his impact on that end of the floor.
Future Prospects
With Doncic now on the roster, the expectation is that Finney-Smith’s offensive game will flourish even further. He recently showcased his scoring ability by putting up 15 points in 32 minutes during the Lakers’ last game before the trade. Their previous chemistry from Dallas could lead to more opportunities for Finney-Smith to thrive in his new environment.
As the season unfolds, the Lakers will closely monitor Finney-Smith’s performance and how it synergizes with Doncic’s style of play. If the duo can recapture the magic they had in Dallas, it could solidify Finney-Smith’s long-term future with the team, especially if Doncic expresses a desire for the front office to keep him around.
In summary, the Lakers’ latest trade marks a significant shift not only for the franchise but also for the players involved, particularly Doncic and Finney-Smith. The potential for success is palpable, and fans are eager to see how this new chapter unfolds for their team.
