Los Angeles Lakers: 4 reasons trading D’Angelo Russell was the right move

More Assets Added

The Lakers didn’t come away empty-handed from this trade. While getting out of Mozgov’s contract was a motivating factor, the Lakers did well to add even more useable assets.

The acquisition of Brook Lopez has seemed to be glossed over. Lopez is arguably the best player in this trade. He expanded his offensive game last season, becoming a three-point threat. He is an established veteran and gives the Lakers a go-to player in their halfcourt offense. Lopez is a big improvement on Mozgov in the middle for the Lakers.

Lopez gives the Lakers a lot of options. If he is playing well, they could flip him at the trade deadline for more assets. Or, if he proves healthy and productive, the Lakers could try and keep him after his contract expires, giving them a solid anchor to try and add to in free agency.

In addition to Lopez, the Lakers acquired another first round pick. We have seen that the Lakers are already putting this to use, as they have added it to their most recent trade offer to the Indiana Pacers for Paul George. If a team owns multiple first round picks, they have more maneuverability.

The Lakers have big plans this offseason. Their biggest fish to fry is George. Or, could they possibly build a package to acquire someone such as Jimmy Butler? The Lakers are set up well after trading Russell and Mozgov to the Nets.