The Los Angeles Lakers made a decisive move earlier this year by acquiring Dorian Finney-Smith to strengthen their defensive lineup. This addition came as the team parted ways with D’Angelo Russell, seeking to enhance perimeter defense. Finney-Smith quickly rose to prominence, becoming not only a top-tier perimeter defender but also the Lakers’ defensive cornerstone, especially following Anthony Davis’s exit.
Exceptional Defensive Versatility on Display
Finney-Smith’s ability to guard multiple positions makes him an invaluable asset in today’s evolving NBA landscape, where offensive schemes frequently shift on the fly. His flexibility allows the Lakers to effectively counter various offensive threats and maintain adaptability during crucial moments. While scoring is not his primary contribution, Finney-Smith benefits from a Lakers roster rich in offensive talent, focusing his efforts on shutting down opponents.
Decisive Choice Looms Over Upcoming Offseason
With the season coming to a close, Finney-Smith faces a significant decision: to exercise his $15.3 million player option or to explore free agency. This choice carries weight not just for his career but also for the Lakers’ future defensive approach. The organization remains hopeful about retaining him, valuing his crucial role as a defensive leader, particularly as a key contributor off the bench.
Thriving Within JJ Redick’s Defensive Framework
Under the coaching of JJ Redick, Finney-Smith has flourished by capitalizing on his physical strength and defensive intelligence to disrupt opposing offenses. His skill in preventing drives to the basket and limiting easy scoring opportunities has become a cornerstone of the Lakers’ defensive efforts. Despite these strengths, the team still faces a need to secure a starting center to further bolster their defense—an area where Finney-Smith’s offensive limitations leave a gap.
Potential Impacts and the Road Ahead
If Finney-Smith opts for free agency, the Lakers will face a challenge in replacing a defender of his caliber who seamlessly fits Redick’s system. Financial considerations suggest that staying with the Lakers may be his most viable option, as matching or exceeding his current contract elsewhere looks unlikely. Over his tenure, Finney-Smith has averaged 7.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, while shooting 44.2 percent from the field and nearly 40 percent from three-point range, underlining his well-rounded contribution when called upon.
Assessing Finney-Smith’s Role in the Lakers’ Championship Quest
Dorian Finney-Smith’s rise as a defensive stalwart reflects both his dedication and the Lakers’ strategic planning. His upcoming decision on the player option will heavily influence the team’s defensive setup and roster construction moving forward. His presence highlights how valuable specialized defense is in the pursuit of NBA titles. As the offseason develops, both the Lakers and their supporters eagerly await whether Finney-Smith will continue anchoring their defense on the road to championship success.