Dorian Finney-Smith Declines Option with Lakers and Enters Free Agency
Los Angeles Lakers forward Dorian Finney-Smith has decided to decline his player option for $15.4 million for the 2025-26 season. According to sources, the player will become a free agent.
Several contending teams are expected to pursue Finney-Smith starting Monday night, though a return to the Lakers remains a possibility.
Finney-Smith, 32, arrived at the Lakers in December via a trade from the Brooklyn Nets, and had an immediate impact on the team. The forward averaged almost 29 minutes per game with the Lakers, with 39.8% effectiveness in three-point shots.
Known for his defensive versatility, Finney-Smith was key to the functioning of the Lakers’ fast-break units. The player has extensive experience playing with Luka Dončić, as they both shared five years with the Dallas Mavericks.
Lakers coach JJ Redick relied heavily on Finney-Smith during the playoffs, giving him 34 minutes of playing time per game.
