Dorian Finney-Smith may not be a guaranteed return for the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason, despite interest on both sides in continuing the partnership.
According to a report from ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the veteran forward is weighing his $15.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season. A source familiar with negotiations told the outlet that Finney-Smith could explore other teams if opting in is the only path to remaining in Los Angeles.
The Lakers acquired the 32-year-old in a midseason trade with the Brooklyn Nets, surrendering three second-round picks. In 43 regular season appearances with L.A., Finney-Smith averaged 7.9 points and 3.6 rebounds while shooting 39.8% from three-point range.
He also started one of five playoff games for the Lakers and logged 34.0 minutes per contest, further cementing his role as a trusted defender under head coach JJ Redick.
Finney-Smith’s decision has broader implications for the Lakers’ offseason. Opting in would make him eligible to sign a four-year, $96.5 million extension after the July 6 free agency moratorium, per ESPN.
However, if the forward declines the option in pursuit of a long-term deal elsewhere, the Lakers would not only lose a key rotation player but also face scrutiny for the trade cost—effectively giving up multiple picks for a short-term rental.
Lakers brass must now evaluate whether retaining Finney-Smith on a new deal aligns with their financial strategy. His defensive versatility, floor-spacing ability, and reputation as a strong locker-room presence have made him a valued contributor on playoff-caliber teams since his early years in Dallas.
Through nine seasons in the NBA, Finney-Smith has played in 591 regular season games and 40 postseason contests. He’s consistently earned minutes through his commitment to defense and efficient three-point shooting, notably hitting 41.1% from deep across 63 games this past season.
The 2025 free agency period officially begins July 6, and until then, the Lakers’ front office will be monitoring Finney-Smith’s decision closely.
