Lakers GM Rob Pelinka makes feelings known on trading D'Angelo Russell for Dorian Finney-Smith & Shake Milton

Following the trade of D'Angelo Russell, the Los Angeles Lakers released a statement through their GM, Rob Pelinka. The statement, shared by the team's communications department, expressed gratitude for Russell's contributions on the court.

"We want to thank D'Angelo for his second stint with us, where we celebrated some great moments and accomplishments on the court together. We want to wish him and Maxwell Lewis well in their future endeavours with the Brooklyn Nets."

The statement also announced the arrival of Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton to the team.

"We are thrilled to add the physicality, toughness and elite shooting that Dorian Finney-Smith will bring to our core. We also greatly value the playmaking of Shake Milton. We are excited for our fans to get both of these players out on the court."

ESPN's Shams Charania reported the four-player trade on Sunday. The Lakers traded Russell, Maxwell Lewis and three second-round picks (2027, 2030 and 2031) to the Nets in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton.

Finney-Smith provides much-needed wing depth and is set to make $14.9 million this year with a player option of $15.3 for the 2025-26 season. He averaged 10.4 points and 4.6 rebounds for the Nets this season.

D'Angelo Russell, who had to settle for a role on the bench, averaged 12.4 points and 4.7 assists. This trade marks the second time he's been moved from the Lakers to the Nets in his career and his fifth trade overall.

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What's next for the Lakers after D'Angelo Russell trade?

The Lakers' trade of D'Angelo Russell and Maxwell Lewis to the Nets marks the beginning of what could be many future trades. While the full details of the deal remain unclear, the team retains the flexibility to make further moves involving one or more of its first-round picks.

D'Angelo Russell (1) moves the ball against Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox (5) - Source: Imagn

Before the trade, the Purple and Gold had four second-round picks available. Now, they hold three first-round picks (2027, 2029, and 2030) and one second-round pick.

In addition to bolstering their wing depth, they now enjoy greater financial flexibility below the second apron. Indeed, this trade also reduced their tax bill from $53.2 million to $42 million.