EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- Dorian Finney-Smith is ready to take his shot at an NBA championship after his recent trade from the Brooklyn Nets to the Los Angeles Lakers. In a bold move that signals the Lakers' intent to contend for the title this season, Finney-Smith expressed his excitement about the transition from a struggling Brooklyn team to one with championship aspirations.

"It's incredible, honestly,” Finney-Smith stated. “The chance to not just make the playoffs, but to compete for a championship is a whole different vibe. In Brooklyn, we were on the outside looking in. Now, I'm part of a team that’s focused on winning it all. The energy is contagious here."

The Lakers completed a significant trade, parting ways with D'Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three future second-round picks (2027, 2030, and 2031) in exchange for Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton. The trade showcases the Lakers’ commitment to bolstering their roster as they gear up for a postseason run.

Immediately after the trade was announced on Sunday, Finney-Smith and Milton arrived in Los Angeles from Orlando, where they were with the Nets. The duo observed practice while waiting for the completion of official paperwork that includes physicals for all players involved.

Lakers coach JJ Redick, who shares a past with both players—having played alongside Finney-Smith at the Dallas Mavericks and Milton at the Philadelphia 76ers—planned to incorporate them quickly into the game plan. Redick anticipates fielding both players as soon as Tuesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

"Dorian is a versatile defender and has proven himself to knock down shots consistently,” Redick noted. “He adds a lot to our defensive scheme. Shake is another dynamic player who can create offense for himself and others. Their presence will enhance our team's culture both on and off the court."

In their time with the Nets, Finney-Smith averaged a respectable 10.4 points with impressive shooting numbers—45.9% from the field, including 43.5% from three-point territory. Milton contributed with 7.4 points and similar shooting efficiency, proving to be a valuable asset.

At 31 years old, Finney-Smith brings not only his talent but also his playoff experience, having participated in 35 postseason games. While Redick is satisfied with the current starting lineup—consisting of superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis alongside Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and promising young talent Max Christie—he acknowledges Finney-Smith's adaptability to fit into various rotations.

Redick also commended GM Rob Pelinka for executing the trade with ample time before the February 6 trade deadline. "Having the ability to integrate new players early in the season is key. We need them available for ongoing cohesion among the team, especially as we aim for a successful playoff run," he commented.

Injury concerns were also mentioned as Lakers backup point guard Gabe Vincent exited his previous game against the Sacramento Kings with a hip injury and missed Monday's practice. The Lakers are also awaiting the return of forward Jarred Vanderbilt and center Christian Wood, both of whom have yet to take the court this season. Vanderbilt did participate in a non-contact portion of practice, providing hope for his return.

"Creating a cohesive unit now will directly affect our performance come playoff time," Redick emphasized. "The more we invest in our connections, the better positioned we’ll be for those crucial games in April, May, and hopefully June."

Even though he couldn’t practice on Monday, Finney-Smith made sure to build rapport with his teammates, wishing LeBron James a happy 40th birthday. "After nine years of guarding him, it felt good to finally chat with him. I even joked about getting some of his shoes. It's a surreal moment being part of this team now, and I can't wait to showcase what I can contribute alongside these great players."

With the new additions, the Lakers seem poised for a fierce championship pursuit this season. Can Dorian Finney-Smith help lead L.A. back to the promised land? Stay tuned—this season is heating up!