Los Angeles Lakers Forward Dorian Finney-Smith Declines $15.4M Option, Will Enter Free Agency With Multiple Suitors Eyeing Him

Dorian Finney-Smith is betting on himself, and the market is already buzzing with interest. According to a report from The Athletic’s Shams Charania, the Los Angeles Lakers forward is officially declining his $15.4 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season, opting instead to test free agency. It’s a move that could reshape the offseason for several contenders, with Finney-Smith poised to be one of the most coveted versatile forwards available when negotiations open Monday night.

Finney-Smith’s decision doesn’t rule out a return to the Lakers, but it opens the door for a competitive bidding war among playoff-caliber franchises hungry for a proven three-and-D wing with championship aspirations. His combination of perimeter defense, floor spacing, and locker room presence makes him an ideal addition for teams seeking to solidify their rotations without sacrificing chemistry.

The 31-year-old forward, known for his defensive versatility and steady three-point shooting, joined the Lakers in February as part of a multi-team trade that bolstered Los Angeles’ depth for their playoff push. Though the Lakers ultimately fell short of their championship goals, Finney-Smith’s impact was immediate, providing the kind of two-way presence that elite teams covet come postseason time.

Why Finney-Smith Declined His Player Option

Finney-Smith’s $15.4 million player option for next season would have provided financial security, but with the NBA’s salary cap set to rise and several contenders holding significant cap flexibility or mid-level exceptions, the market conditions were ripe for him to explore free agency. By declining the option, Finney-Smith positions himself to secure a more lucrative multi-year deal, possibly with greater long-term stability and the chance to choose his ideal competitive situation.

At 31, this may represent one of Finney-Smith’s final opportunities to cash in on a significant contract. His durability, playoff experience, and reputation as a high-character veteran make him an attractive piece for teams hoping to contend immediately while maintaining defensive integrity.

Market Interest: Who Could Pursue Finney-Smith?

Multiple teams are expected to pursue Finney-Smith the moment free agency opens. While a Lakers return remains on the table, reports suggest that several title contenders are preparing aggressive pitches to lure him away from Los Angeles.

Here’s a look at some likely suitors:

• Philadelphia 76ers: With cap space available and a need to surround Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey with perimeter defense, the Sixers are expected to pursue Finney-Smith heavily. His ability to defend multiple positions and knock down corner threes fits perfectly alongside their core.

• Phoenix Suns: Despite financial constraints, the Suns are rumored to be exploring creative ways to add veteran depth, especially on the wing. Finney-Smith’s defensive prowess would alleviate pressure on Kevin Durant and Devin Booker in critical playoff matchups.

• Milwaukee Bucks: The Bucks are constantly seeking defensive-minded wings to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo. If they can maneuver financially, Finney-Smith’s switchability could be a game-changer.

• Miami Heat: Pat Riley’s front office has long prioritized tough, defensive wings. Finney-Smith embodies the Heat culture and could slide seamlessly into their rotation.

• Los Angeles Lakers (Return Possible): Though he’s testing free agency, Finney-Smith hasn’t ruled out returning to the Lakers. The franchise has expressed interest in retaining him, understanding the vital role he played on both ends of the floor.

Finney-Smith’s Impact With the Lakers

During his brief stint with Los Angeles, Finney-Smith appeared in 27 games, averaging 7.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game while shooting 36% from beyond the arc. His defensive assignments often included guarding the opposing team’s best wing scorer, and his ability to stretch the floor provided LeBron James and Anthony Davis with more room to operate offensively.

Though his stats may not leap off the page, Finney-Smith’s contributions went beyond the box score. His hustle, defensive positioning, and floor spacing addressed key weaknesses for the Lakers, particularly on nights when their offensive rhythm stalled.

Lakers head coach Darvin Ham praised Finney-Smith after several critical performances, emphasizing his versatility and professionalism:

“Dorian came in and did exactly what we hoped he would—guard the toughest assignments, hit big shots, and bring veteran leadership to our locker room,” Ham said late last season. “Guys like him are invaluable if you want to compete deep into the playoffs.”

Despite his efforts, the Lakers were eliminated in the Western Conference Semifinals, exposing lingering roster deficiencies that the front office will need to address this summer. Whether Finney-Smith remains part of their solution depends on how aggressive Los Angeles is willing to be when free agency opens.

What’s Next for the Lakers?

Finney-Smith’s departure, even if temporary, leaves a hole on the Lakers’ wing depth chart. With LeBron James turning 41 before the start of the next postseason and uncertainty surrounding other role players, Los Angeles faces pressure to reshape its supporting cast quickly.

General Manager Rob Pelinka has expressed his commitment to building a roster capable of contending during James’ remaining window of elite play. Retaining Finney-Smith, or replacing him with a similar-caliber defender, is critical to maintaining defensive versatility—especially in a Western Conference loaded with elite perimeter threats.

The Lakers have several options:

• Re-sign Finney-Smith on a multi-year deal, assuming mutual interest and financial alignment.

• Target other veteran wings in free agency with mid-level exceptions or sign-and-trade packages.

• Prioritize internal development of younger players like Max Christie while exploring external additions.

The franchise also faces broader decisions regarding the futures of Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and other key contributors. Finney-Smith’s free agency adds another layer of complexity to an already pivotal offseason.

Finney-Smith’s Career Trajectory

Undrafted out of Florida in 2016, Finney-Smith has carved out an impressive NBA career through grit, defense, and steady improvement. After beginning his career with the Dallas Mavericks, where he became a staple in their rotation and a trusted defender alongside Luka Dončić, he later joined the Brooklyn Nets before his latest stop with the Lakers.

His reputation around the league is built on consistency and reliability. Coaches trust him to take on difficult defensive assignments, switch across multiple positions, and knock down timely shots. For contenders, those qualities become invaluable during playoff runs.

In total, Finney-Smith has appeared in 563 regular-season games, averaging 8.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, and shooting 36.4% from three-point range across his career. His playoff experience, including deep runs with Dallas, has only enhanced his market value.

A Market Worth Watching

As free agency opens Monday night, Dorian Finney-Smith is poised to be a hot commodity. His skill set aligns with the modern NBA’s emphasis on switchable defenders and floor spacing, and his experience makes him a seamless addition for teams looking to bolster their rotations.

While the Lakers remain in play to re-sign him, expect a competitive market that could drive his price above the $15.4 million option he declined. Whether he stays in Los Angeles or takes his talents elsewhere, Finney-Smith’s next move could significantly impact the title hopes of whichever team secures his signature.

For the Lakers and the league’s top contenders, the countdown to one of the offseason’s most intriguing free agency decisions has begun.