Projected Starting Lineups Post-Trade:
Los Angeles Lakers:
PG: D'Angelo Russell
SG: Austin Reaves
SF: LeBron James
PF: Rui Hachimura
C: Anthony Davis
Brooklyn Nets:
PG: Ben Simmons
SG: Cam Thomas
SF: Cam Johnson
PF: Dorian Finney-Smith
C: Nic Claxton
Lakers’ Perspective: Adding Depth and Experience
This trade brings Dennis Schröder back to the Lakers for his third stint, all alongside LeBron James. Schröder is a player who already knows the Lakers' system and how to complement LeBron and Anthony Davis. His familiarity with the team allows him to slot in seamlessly, bringing tough defense, secondary playmaking, and scoring punch off the bench or as a spot starter.
With Schröder in the mix, D'Angelo Russell can now operate more off-ball, where he’s shown effectiveness as a catch-and-shoot threat. Schröder’s ability to break down defenses and penetrate opens up more opportunities for Russell, Austin Reaves, and the rest of the roster. For Schröder, returning to the Lakers offers a chance at redemption and a meaningful role on a title-contending team. His first stint in 2020-21 was solid, while his second stint in 2022-23 proved he could still be a high-impact contributor, especially in the playoffs. A reunion feels like a natural fit for both sides.
Nets’ Perspective: Focusing on the Future
This trade positions the Brooklyn Nets to further their rebuilding process, with the team in a clear tanking phase. Taking on Gabe Vincent’s contract is a small price to pay given that they also receive Jalen Hood-Schifino, a young guard with upside, along with a 2025 second-round pick.
Gabe Vincent is coming off a rough 2024 season where he struggled with consistency, efficiency, and fitting into his new role. However, it’s worth noting that just a year earlier, he was a breakout star during the Miami Heat’s 2023 playoff run, where his clutch shooting and gritty defense helped propel the team to the NBA Finals. The Nets would be banking on the possibility that, in the right environment with less pressure, they can revive that version of Vincent. With a fresh start and more opportunities in a rebuilding situation, Brooklyn hopes to unlock the impactful, playoff-tested guard that Vincent showed he could be.
Jalen Hood-Schifino isn't the centerpiece of this trade, but he’s a worthwhile project for a rebuilding team like the Nets. While he had an up-and-down rookie season, he still offers upside as a young guard with size and playmaking potential. In Brooklyn’s current situation, Hood-Schifino will get more opportunities to develop alongside players like Cam Thomas and Dariq Whitehead without the pressure of immediate success. Though he’s far from a guaranteed contributor, he represents another swing for a team focused on the long game.
If Ben Simmons is healthy and fully committed, he likely resumes the starting point guard role. Simmons would fit into the Nets’ plans as a primary playmaker, allowing the other young wings and shooters to play off him. With less pressure to compete immediately, Brooklyn can afford to focus on player development while positioning themselves for a stronger draft position.
Final Thoughts
For the Lakers, this trade is a win-now move that bolsters their depth with a familiar and proven veteran in Dennis Schröder. His fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis is already established, and his presence allows D’Angelo Russell to thrive more in an off-ball role.
For the Nets, the focus is clearly on the future. By acquiring Jalen Hood-Schifino, Brooklyn adds another young talent who fits their rebuilding timeline. Meanwhile, taking on Gabe Vincent’s contract is a low-risk move with potential upside if he can rediscover his playoff form. The 2025 second-round pick is an added asset for their rebuilding strategy.
This trade is a clear win for both teams given their current objectives, whether it’s contending for a title or planning for long-term success.