As the offseason progresses, the Los Angeles Lakers find their trade options becoming increasingly limited. While a major move seems unlikely, there are still smaller adjustments they can make to enhance their roster.
The Lakers are in need of a 3-and-D forward, and according to Zack Buckley of Bleacher Report, they could find one with the Brooklyn Nets.
“Dorian Finney-Smith tops that list,” Buckley wrote in a July 11 column. “He addresses several needs for the Lakers. His defensive versatility makes him an all-purpose stopper, and his three-point shooting has been consistent at 37.1% over the past five seasons.”
Buckley suggested a trade involving a protected future first-round pick and Jalen Hood-Schifino in exchange for Finney-Smith. Considering Hood-Schifino’s minimal impact during his rookie season, the Lakers might not mind parting with him for a veteran. However, trading an unprotected first-round pick for a 31-year-old forward may be too costly.
**Dorian Finney-Smith’s Impact**
While Finney-Smith would be an upgrade over Hood-Schifino, he may not significantly impact the team. Last season, he shot just 34.8% from three-point range and averaged 8.5 points per game. Despite being labeled a 3-and-D forward, he has never hit 40% of his threes in any season.
Though he is a solid defender, the Lakers already have a strong wing defender in Jarred Vanderbilt. Finney-Smith may not bring enough to justify trading an unprotected first-round pick. Those assets should be reserved for more impactful players.
**Gary Trent Jr. as a Better Fit**
Gary Trent Jr. could be a better target for the Lakers if they seek a 3-and-D forward. At only 25, Trent has room for growth and could be a long-term asset. He has a career three-point shooting percentage of 38.6% and averages 14.3 points per game.
In another column, Buckley argued for the Lakers to pursue Trent.
“This past season, L.A. averaged just 11.8 three-point makes on 31.4 attempts,” Buckley wrote on July 10. “The champion Boston Celtics, for reference, averaged 16.5 on 42.5. Even stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis will struggle with those numbers. Adding Trent would help balance the team’s offense. He should be a priority if he can be signed at a bargain price.”
Although Trent is a free agent, the Lakers lack the cap space to sign new players outright. They would still need to trade to acquire him. Trent is worth a first-round pick due to his youth, productivity, and shooting ability. He could immediately join the starting lineup and potentially become the Lakers’ third or fourth-best player, making a substantial difference for the team.
