How the Dorian Finney-Smith trade gives the Lakers more financial flexibility

The Lakers' recent trade for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton not only strengthens their roster but also provides crucial financial flexibility ahead of the trade deadline.

By acquiring Finney-Smith and Milton, whose combined salary is lower than Russell's, the Lakers avoided hard-capping themselves and gained important financial breathing room.

The trade positions the Lakers around $3.5 million below the second apron, offering them more maneuverability with their roster leading to the trade deadline.

With the trade, the Lakers managed to save approximately $15 million off their luxury-tax bill, thus allowing for better financial management moving forward.

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