Lakers' Dilemma Persists Despite Dorian Finney-Smith Trade
The Los Angeles Lakers have taken a significant step forward by acquiring Dorian Finney-Smith from the Brooklyn Nets, addressing their need for a versatile defender. This move, which cost the team D’Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks, highlights the front office’s intent to improve the roster for the ongoing NBA season. However, the Lakers still face a pressing issue that remains unresolved—Anthony Davis’ long-standing request for more depth at the center position.
Finney-Smith’s arrival brings much-needed defensive flexibility. Standing at 6-foot-7, he can guard multiple positions and effectively disrupt opposing offenses, which should help reduce the workload on Davis. Moreover, Finney-Smith’s impressive 43.5% shooting from three-point range this season adds a valuable offensive dimension, complementing the Lakers’ core players. Despite these positives, this trade does not directly address Davis’ plea for a true center who can take on the physically demanding matchups in the paint.
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Davis first voiced his concerns in September 2023, emphasizing his preference to play as a power forward rather than a center. His repeated requests highlight a fundamental issue: the lack of a reliable big man who can anchor the team’s interior defense and help with rebounding. While Finney-Smith's presence may alleviate some defensive challenges, it does not solve the Lakers' struggles in key areas. The team ranks near the bottom of the league in offensive rebounds allowed, second-chance points permitted, and opponent points in the paint—statistics that underscore their vulnerability in the post.
Recent playoff failures have further exposed this flaw. The Lakers’ inability to handle dominant centers like Nikola Jokić has been a recurring theme, with their postseason runs often cut short by their lack of size and physicality in the paint. This deficiency not only limits their potential against elite competition but also places an undue burden on Davis, who is forced to shoulder the dual responsibilities of rim protection and offensive production.
While Finney-Smith’s addition is a step in the right direction, the Lakers' aspirations for a deep playoff run may hinge on their ability to acquire a true center. With limited trade assets remaining after this deal, the front office faces a daunting challenge in addressing this need. For now, the Lakers must maximize their current roster while navigating a competitive Western Conference, hoping that the contributions of their new acquisition can offset their lingering weaknesses.
In summary, the Lakers’ acquisition of Finney-Smith is a meaningful move, but the unresolved center issue continues to loom large. As the team pushes forward, meeting Anthony Davis’ request could be the key to unlocking their full potential and achieving sustained postseason success.
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