Los Angeles Lakers forward Dorian Finney-Smith is declining his $15.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season and will become a free agent, according to Shams Charania.
In the dynamic world of professional basketball, player decisions often ripple through teams, fans, and the broader league landscape. One such significant move recently took center stage when Los Angeles Lakers forward Dorian Finney-Smith announced he would decline his $15.4 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season, paving the way for free agency. Reported by Shams Charania, this decision signals a pivotal moment in Finney-Smith’s career, reflecting both his confidence in his value on the open market and the evolving landscape of NBA contracts and team-building strategies.
This article explores the context behind Finney-Smith’s decision, its potential implications for the Lakers and other teams, and what it reveals about the current state of NBA free agency and player movement.
Who is Dorian Finney-Smith?
Dorian Finney-Smith, born on May 4, 1993, in Portsmouth, Virginia, has carved out a reputation as a versatile wing player known for his defensive prowess, three-point shooting, and relentless energy on the court. Standing 6’7″ with a wingspan that enhances his defensive versatility, Finney-Smith has become a valuable role player and occasional starter for teams seeking defensive stability and floor spacing.
His NBA journey began when he went undrafted in 2016 but quickly made a name for himself with the Dallas Mavericks, where he developed into a key rotational player over several seasons. His defensive versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions, and his three-point shooting made him an essential component of modern NBA lineups. Finney-Smith’s work ethic and team-first mentality earned him respect across the league.
In August 2023, Finney-Smith was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in a move that aimed to bolster their wing depth and defensive capabilities. His arrival in Los Angeles was met with optimism, as he was expected to bring defensive tenacity and stability alongside stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
The Context of the Player Option Decision
Understanding Player Options
In NBA contracts, a player option offers the player the choice to extend their contract for an additional year at a predetermined salary. For Finney-Smith, that option was valued at $15.4 million for the 2025-26 season. Declining this option means that he will become a free agent, able to negotiate a new deal with any team, including the Lakers or others, or potentially re-sign with the Lakers under different terms.
Why Would a Player Decline a Player Option?
There are several reasons why a player might decline their option:
- Market Value Expectations: Finney-Smith might believe he can secure a more lucrative or longer-term deal in free agency, especially if he perceives increased demand for his skill set.
- Injury or Performance Concerns: If a player has experienced injuries or doubts about their performance trajectory, they might prefer to test the open market rather than commit to a fixed salary.
- Team Dynamics and Future Plans: Sometimes players decline options to explore opportunities elsewhere or to wait for a better fit with a different team.
- Salary Cap and Contract Strategies: Players and agents often assess the league’s salary cap landscape and future projections to determine the best financial move.
Finney-Smith’s Specific Situation
Given his role and performance, Finney-Smith’s decision to decline the $15.4 million option indicates confidence in his market value. The NBA has seen a significant increase in salaries for versatile wing players, especially those with strong defensive reputations and three-point shooting. Finney-Smith, who averaged roughly 7.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game during his tenure with the Mavericks and continued to contribute with the Lakers, believes he can command a better deal.
Additionally, the Lakers’ roster and cap space considerations likely played a role. By declining his option, Finney-Smith and his representatives can negotiate a new contract that might include more years, higher annual salary, or both, especially if the market perceives his contributions as more valuable than the $15.4 million salary.
Implications for the Los Angeles Lakers
Flexibility and Cap Space
Declining Finney-Smith’s option grants the Lakers increased flexibility in their salary cap planning. They can now decide whether to re-sign him, pursue other free agents, or make additional trades. Given that the Lakers are in a championship contention window, managing cap space efficiently is crucial for their ability to add complementary pieces.
Re-signing Finney-Smith
While Finney-Smith is leaving the safety of a guaranteed $15.4 million, he might still remain a priority for the Lakers if both sides can agree on terms. His defensive versatility and floor-spacing ability are valuable assets, especially as the team looks to contend for a title.
Potential for a Sign-and-Trade
If Finney-Smith opts for a different team, the Lakers could explore a sign-and-trade deal, which allows them to retain some control over his destination and potentially acquire assets in return. This strategy is common when a team wants to retain a player but also benefits from receiving compensation.
Impact on Team Chemistry and Future Planning
Finney-Smith’s decision could influence the Lakers’ roster construction and chemistry. If he re-signs, he provides continuity and defensive stability. If he moves elsewhere, the Lakers will need to identify suitable replacements or adjust their defensive schemes.
Finney-Smith’s Market Value and Free Agency Outlook
Current NBA Market Trends
The NBA has seen a surge in salary cap figures, driven by media rights deals and league revenue growth. As a result, players like Finney-Smith, with his defensive and shooting profile, are highly sought after. Teams are increasingly valuing versatile wing defenders capable of guarding multiple positions and stretching the floor.
Potential Suitors
Finney-Smith’s skill set appeals to numerous contenders and playoff-caliber teams. Possible destinations include:
- Teams seeking defensive wings: Such as Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat, or Philadelphia 76ers.
- Teams needing floor spacing: Like the Golden State Warriors or Phoenix Suns.
- Contenders looking for veteran leadership: Teams like the Boston Celtics or Denver Nuggets.
Contract Expectations
Based on recent NBA signings, a player of Finney-Smith’s caliber could command a multi-year deal valued between $12 million and $20 million annually, depending on contract structure, team needs, and negotiations. His ability to impact both ends of the floor makes him a valuable commodity in free agency.
Career Trajectory
Finney-Smith has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, transitioning from undrafted player to a key NBA role player. His decision to decline the Lakers’ option reflects his confidence in his ability to secure a lucrative deal, possibly with a longer-term commitment and higher annual salary.
The Broader NBA Context: Player Movement and Contract Strategies
The Rise of Versatile Wing Players
The NBA’s modern game emphasizes positional flexibility, three-point shooting, and defensive versatility. Players like Finney-Smith epitomize this trend, making them highly desirable in today’s league.
Contract Negotiations and Player Power
The ability of players to decline options and explore free agency underscores a shift in league dynamics, where players have more leverage and agency. This trend allows athletes to maximize their earning potential and find optimal team fits.
Lakers’ Future Moves
The Lakers’ decision to allow Finney-Smith to explore free agency aligns with their broader strategy of balancing star talent, cap flexibility, and role players. They might prioritize re-signing him if the price is right or look elsewhere if better options arise.
Dorian Finney-Smith’s choice to decline his $15.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season marks a significant moment in his career and the Lakers’ roster planning. It reflects his confidence in his market value and the evolving landscape of NBA free agency, where versatile wings are highly valued and contractual flexibility is key.
For Finney-Smith, this move opens the door to potentially lucrative opportunities elsewhere, where he can further showcase his defensive prowess and complementary skills. For the Lakers, it offers strategic flexibility, whether they look to re-sign him, pursue other free agents, or explore trades.
As NBA free agency unfolds, Finney-Smith’s decision will undoubtedly be scrutinized and celebrated as a savvy move by a player eager to capitalize on his skills and position himself for a rewarding next chapter. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see where he lands and how his career continues to evolve in the league’s increasingly competitive and dynamic environment.
