Lakers’ Dorian Finney-Smith Declines $15.4M Option, Heading to Free Agency—Multiple Contenders Ready to Pursue, Lakers Could Try to Bring Him Back
The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a pivotal offseason as one of their key role players, Dorian Finney-Smith, has officially declined his $15.4 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season. This decision places Finney-Smith squarely in the free-agent market, creating an exciting ripple effect among multiple contending teams who are expected to aggressively pursue his services. While Finney-Smith’s move signals a willingness to explore new opportunities and potentially secure a more lucrative or longer-term deal, the Lakers themselves remain in the conversation and could attempt to bring the versatile forward back to Los Angeles. This development is significant for both the Lakers and the broader NBA landscape as teams prepare for a highly competitive free agency period filled with strategic maneuvers.
Dorian Finney-Smith has long been valued for his defensive versatility, three-and-D shooting ability, and strong work ethic—traits that have made him an indispensable asset for the Lakers since joining the team. Finney-Smith’s role often extends beyond the stat sheet; he is known for his on-court leadership, energy, and ability to guard multiple positions, making him one of the most coveted role players around the league. His skill set fits perfectly in today’s NBA, where spacing and perimeter defense are crucial, especially for contending teams looking to supplement star talent with reliable role players. Finney-Smith’s decision to decline his player option indicates a belief in his value on the open market, and it opens the door for a bidding war that could see his market value rise significantly.
The $15.4 million player option was a solid offer reflecting Finney-Smith’s contribution, but by turning it down, he is clearly signaling that he expects a better financial package or a deal with a longer guaranteed term elsewhere. Player options often give players some flexibility to reassess their value based on how the previous season went, and Finney-Smith’s choice is not surprising given his consistent performance and the increased emphasis on players like him in the modern NBA. The decision also underscores the Lakers’ financial and roster flexibility heading into free agency, as the team looks to balance maintaining core contributors with acquiring new talent.
For the Lakers, Finney-Smith’s status creates both opportunities and challenges. On the one hand, the Lakers have shown in recent years that they value his contributions highly—he’s a key cog in their defensive schemes and offensive spacing. On the other hand, the team must consider salary cap constraints, luxury tax implications, and their long-term roster-building goals. The Lakers have stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis anchoring their squad, but they need players like Finney-Smith to fill out the rotation with dependable, high-impact role players who can contribute consistently on both ends of the floor. Bringing Finney-Smith back would provide continuity and stability, which is valuable as the team aims to contend for another championship.
Outside of Los Angeles, the news of Finney-Smith entering free agency has triggered interest from several playoff contenders. Teams that are on the cusp of contention or looking to bolster their depth will see him as an ideal fit—someone who can immediately improve their defense and provide reliable shooting without demanding star-level attention or usage. Given the competitive nature of free agency, multiple teams will likely engage in discussions with Finney-Smith’s camp to explore contract terms that match their needs and salary cap space.
One major factor that will influence Finney-Smith’s next destination is the role he is promised on a new team. While financial compensation is critical, many players in his position prioritize opportunities to contribute meaningfully and compete deep into the playoffs. Teams with championship aspirations that can guarantee minutes and a defined role will have an edge in recruiting Finney-Smith. This competitive landscape means the Lakers will have to offer not just money, but a vision that aligns with his ambitions.
Another consideration is the evolving salary cap and luxury tax structure in the NBA, which has made contract negotiations more complex for both teams and players. The Lakers, a team often navigating the luxury tax, must be strategic in their offers to avoid costly penalties while still building a competitive roster. Finney-Smith’s market value as a top-tier role player means the Lakers will have to weigh whether to meet or exceed offers from other teams or potentially let him walk if it doesn’t fit their financial blueprint. However, given the mutual familiarity and Finney-Smith’s success in their system, a return remains a strong possibility if terms can be agreed upon.
Dorian Finney-Smith’s skill set is especially valuable given the Lakers’ style of play and roster composition. His ability to guard multiple positions makes him a perfect complement to stars who demand attention on offense, allowing the team to maintain defensive intensity throughout the lineup. Additionally, Finney-Smith’s three-point shooting provides the spacing necessary to keep opposing defenses honest, a crucial factor when playing alongside dominant inside scorers like Anthony Davis. His veteran presence and professionalism also contribute positively to locker room chemistry, an often underrated but essential element for championship teams.
The Lakers’ pursuit of Finney-Smith’s return is also a reflection of the franchise’s broader strategy. Over the past few years, the organization has emphasized surrounding their superstars with versatile, high-IQ role players who can execute defensive schemes and provide secondary scoring. Finney-Smith fits this mold perfectly, and his departure would leave a gap that would be challenging to fill in free agency, especially at his price point. His decision to test free agency puts pressure on the Lakers to act decisively if they wish to maintain roster continuity.
From Finney-Smith’s perspective, entering free agency offers an opportunity to maximize his earnings and secure a contract that reflects his impact on the court. Having played significant minutes for a high-profile team like the Lakers, he has proven his ability to perform on big stages, which enhances his appeal. The free agency market could see him command a multi-year deal with a raise over his current $15.4 million salary, depending on how teams value his contribution and their available cap space. Players like Finney-Smith, who blend defensive prowess with efficient shooting, are increasingly rare and highly sought after.
The timing of Finney-Smith’s decision is also notable. With the NBA free agency period officially opening shortly, teams will be swift in their efforts to secure him. His camp is expected to entertain offers from a range of contenders, which will likely include not only the Lakers but also other playoff teams looking to deepen their bench and bolster their defense. The competition could escalate quickly, making the negotiation process complex and highly strategic for all parties involved.
In addition to the Lakers, teams such as the Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and Golden State Warriors are often mentioned as prime suitors for players like Finney-Smith who bring championship experience, toughness, and defensive versatility. These teams have demonstrated the ability to integrate players like him effectively into their rotations, maximizing their strengths and creating balanced lineups that can compete at the highest level. If Finney-Smith chooses to join one of these franchises, it could have ripple effects on the balance of power in the NBA.
Ultimately, Dorian Finney-Smith’s free agency saga is a significant storyline this offseason. It highlights the critical role of versatile role players in championship-caliber teams and the challenges franchises face in assembling balanced rosters within salary cap constraints. For the Lakers, it presents a crossroads moment where they must decide how aggressively to pursue continuity versus exploring other roster options. For Finney-Smith, it is an opportunity to shape the next chapter of his career and capitalize on his value in the marketplace.
As the free agency period unfolds, all eyes will be on the negotiations and decisions surrounding Dorian Finney-Smith. Will he return to the Lakers to continue his role in a familiar system, or will he find a new home that offers a different opportunity or better financial terms? The answer will not only impact the Lakers but also influence the dynamics of the NBA’s free agency market and playoff landscape. Fans, analysts, and teams alike will be watching closely as the story develops, making this one of the most intriguing player decisions of the offseason.
