The Los Angeles Lakers have made some bold moves this season, but while most of the headlines have been about their blockbuster acquisition of Luka Doncic, the real game-changer for their squad came in late December. That’s when they brought in veteran forward Dorian Finney-Smith, a move that has quietly transformed the team in a way that goes beyond the stat sheet.
A Defensive Boost When It Was Needed Most
When Finney-Smith arrived, the Lakers were struggling defensively. Sure, they had plenty of offensive firepower, but they lacked that key 3-and-D presence to anchor their defensive schemes. Enter Finney-Smith, who immediately made an impact. His numbers might not pop out at you, but the effect he’s had on the floor has been undeniable. Since his arrival, the Lakers have climbed the defensive rankings, transforming from a vulnerable unit into one of the most formidable defenses in the NBA.
One key stat that proves his value? He leads the team in plus/minus. That means when he’s on the floor, the Lakers simply perform better, and that’s not just a coincidence.
More Than Just a Role Player
It’s easy to overlook players like Finney-Smith because they don’t put up flashy numbers, but make no mistake—he is exactly the kind of piece championship teams need. His defensive presence, combined with his ability to knock down timely three-pointers, has filled a massive void for the Lakers. Without him, their defensive turnaround might not have happened, and their championship aspirations would be looking far less promising.
The Lakers' success isn’t just about adding superstars like Luka Doncic; it’s about having the right supporting cast that complements those stars. Finney-Smith has done just that, stepping in as a glue guy who helps hold everything together on both ends of the court.
What’s Next for Finney-Smith?
Now, here’s the big question: Will Finney-Smith stay in LA? He’s set to become a free agent this summer, and the Lakers would be wise to lock him in on a new deal. However, keeping him might not be so simple. In a recent interview with HoopsHype, he made it clear that he won’t be taking a pay cut just to stick around.
“You see what just happened with Luka (Doncic)? So, you’ve got to make sure you take care of yourself first. We need to finish the season strong. If we win, everybody eats (smiles),” Finney-Smith said.
It’s a fair stance. At 32 years old (he’ll celebrate his birthday on May 4), he’s still got a few solid years left in him, and he’ll want to maximize his earnings while he still can. His current contract is paying him $14.9 million this season, and with the way he’s been playing, he’s bound to get attention from multiple teams in free agency.
Why the Lakers Must Keep Him
If the Lakers are serious about contending for a championship next season, they simply cannot afford to let Finney-Smith walk. Here’s why:
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Defensive Identity: He has played a crucial role in turning the Lakers into a defensive powerhouse. Losing him could set them back significantly on that end of the floor.
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3-and-D Skillset: Players with his combination of perimeter defense and three-point shooting are invaluable in today’s NBA.
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Winning Mentality: He has seamlessly fit into the Lakers’ system and has shown he can perform in high-pressure situations.
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Team Chemistry: Championship teams thrive on continuity. The Lakers have already seen how much of a difference he makes—why mess with that formula?
The Market Will Be Watching
Other teams are sure to take notice of Finney-Smith’s impact. In a league where quality 3-and-D players are always in demand, he’s likely to receive multiple offers. If the Lakers hesitate, another team could swoop in with a lucrative deal that lures him away. The front office needs to be proactive, making him a priority this offseason rather than scrambling to replace him later.
The Lakers' season has been a rollercoaster, but Finney-Smith has been one of the steadying forces since he arrived. While Doncic might be the superstar everyone talks about, it’s role players like Finney-Smith who help turn good teams into great ones. The Lakers would be wise to recognize that and do everything they can to keep him in purple and gold.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, championship teams aren’t just about the biggest names on the roster. They’re about the right mix of talent, chemistry, and role players who know their job and execute it to perfection. Finney-Smith has proven that he’s one of those invaluable pieces, and the Lakers should do whatever it takes to ensure he remains part of their long-term plans.
With free agency looming, all eyes will be on how the Lakers handle his contract situation. If they make the right move, they’ll be one step closer to adding another banner to the rafters. If not, they may find themselves regretting letting one of their most important players walk away.
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