Lakers Bid Farewell to Dorian Finney-Smith as He Joins Houston Rockets in NBA Free Agency
The Los Angeles Lakers have officially lost key wing defender Dorian Finney-Smith in the opening wave of 2025 NBA free agency. Finney-Smith opted out of the final year of his contract with the Lakers to test the open market and has reportedly agreed to a four-year, $53 million deal with the Houston Rockets. This move signifies a notable shift for both franchises as they continue to reshape their rosters for the upcoming season.
Finney-Smith's Impact on the Lakers
Dorian Finney-Smith, often lauded as a premier "3-and-D" wing, joined the Lakers in a mid-season trade during December 2024, arriving from the Brooklyn Nets in a package that notably involved D'Angelo Russell and multiple future second-round picks. His tenure in Los Angeles, though brief, saw him become a highly valued component, particularly for his versatile defensive capabilities and reliable three-point shooting. During his time with the Lakers in the 2024-25 season, Finney-Smith averaged 7.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists, shooting an efficient 39.8% from beyond the arc.
His departure is viewed as a significant blow to the Lakers' wing depth and defensive identity. Finney-Smith quickly established himself as a trusted rotation player and was reportedly a well-liked presence in the locker room, holding a particularly close bond with star Luka Doncic, who was also acquired by the Lakers last season.
Why the Lakers Let Him Walk
Despite his clear value, the Lakers were seemingly reluctant to offer Finney-Smith the long-term contract he sought. This decision aligns with the Lakers' overarching strategy to maintain salary cap flexibility for future moves, reportedly eyeing the 2026 offseason to potentially pursue another superstar to pair with Doncic.
Finney-Smith's departure, while impactful, does provide the Lakers with financial maneuvering room. His exit opens up the full $14.1 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception (NTMLE), which gives the franchise more flexibility to target other free agents, particularly at the center position to address other roster needs. The Lakers were quick to pivot, reportedly signing Jake LaRavia as a replacement on the wing.
Houston Rockets: Bolstering the Roster for Contention
For the Houston Rockets, the signing of Dorian Finney-Smith is a significant acquisition that underscores their aggressive offseason approach. The Rockets have been making bold moves to accelerate their timeline, notably trading for superstar Kevin Durant earlier this summer and re-signing key veterans like Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams.
Finney-Smith is expected to fill the void left by Dillon Brooks, who was part of the package sent to Phoenix in the Durant blockbuster. His proven ability as a strong, versatile defender and consistent perimeter shooter makes him an ideal fit for a Rockets team aiming to transform into a legitimate championship contender in the Western Conference. His veteran presence and playoff experience will be invaluable for a team looking to blend its talented young core with established performers.
Finney-Smith recently underwent surgery on his left ankle to address a nagging issue but is expected to be fully recovered and ready for training camp.
The Road Ahead
The departure of Dorian Finney-Smith highlights the complex decisions NBA front offices face in balancing immediate roster needs with long-term financial strategy. While the Lakers will need to address the void left by his defensive prowess, his exit provides them with crucial cap flexibility. Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets have added another vital piece to their revamped roster, signaling their strong intentions to compete at the highest level in the upcoming NBA season.
