Lakers Set Sights on Dorian Finney-Smith in Bold Pre-Free Agency Move, per Emerging Report…read more…
As NBA free agency draws near, the Los Angeles Lakers are once again at the center of high-profile offseason buzz. According to multiple league sources, the Lakers have zeroed in on Brooklyn Nets forward Dorian Finney-Smith as a prime trade or acquisition target in the days leading up to free agency. The move signals a strategic shift in the Lakers’ offseason priorities: adding a rugged, two-way wing who can immediately bolster their defense while spacing the floor offensively.
Though no deal is finalized, the report, first circulated by league insider Marc Stein and later corroborated by The Athletic, suggests that the Lakers are exploring multiple paths to acquiring Finney-Smith—either through a direct trade with Brooklyn or as part of a larger sign-and-trade scenario involving other moving parts. With the franchise’s front office led by Rob Pelinka reportedly working the phones aggressively, the message is clear: the Lakers are prioritizing defense and versatility, and Finney-Smith fits the mold.
A Proven Wing with Defensive Versatility
Dorian Finney-Smith, 31, is entering his ninth NBA season, having built a reputation as one of the league’s most dependable “3-and-D” forwards. He spent the first six and a half seasons with the Dallas Mavericks before being traded to Brooklyn in 2023 as part of the blockbuster deal for Kyrie Irving. While he hasn’t always grabbed headlines, Finney-Smith has earned consistent respect from coaches and players around the league for his elite perimeter defense, work ethic, and ability to knock down open shots.
For the 2024–25 season, Finney-Smith averaged 8.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and shot a respectable 36.2% from three-point range. More importantly, he regularly guarded opposing stars—ranging from wings like Jayson Tatum to power forwards like Julius Randle—with considerable success. His lateral quickness, long frame, and defensive IQ would provide a critical upgrade for a Lakers squad that often struggled to contain athletic wings last season.
Filling a Crucial Void
The Lakers’ interest in Finney-Smith highlights one of their most glaring roster needs: perimeter defense. Throughout the 2024–25 campaign, the team was vulnerable against dynamic wing scorers, a weakness that became especially apparent during their first-round playoff exit. While Anthony Davis remains a premier defensive anchor in the paint, he lacked support from wing defenders who could limit penetration and contest shots beyond the arc.
Taurean Prince and Cam Reddish filled rotation roles last season but lacked the consistency and physicality Finney-Smith brings. Meanwhile, Rui Hachimura’s defensive metrics took a dip, and Jarred Vanderbilt’s injury-riddled campaign raised questions about his long-term reliability. Bringing in a seasoned vet like Finney-Smith could go a long way in tightening the Lakers’ defensive schemes under new head coach JJ Redick.
Possible Trade Scenarios
Given that Finney-Smith is under contract through the 2026–27 season (with a player option for that final year), acquiring him outright would likely require the Lakers to part with assets. One scenario floated by analysts includes sending a combination of salary fillers—such as Gabe Vincent and draft capital—to Brooklyn. Another includes the possibility of a multi-team trade, especially if the Lakers pursue a bigger name in free agency and need to balance salary logistics.
“Finney-Smith’s name has come up in multiple trade conversations,” said ESPN’s Brian Windhorst on his podcast. “Brooklyn is open to moving him for the right return, and the Lakers see him as a plug-and-play guy who fills immediate needs.”
Pelinka, known for pulling off bold moves (including the trade for D’Angelo Russell and the 2023 deadline flurry that reshaped the roster), will need to maneuver carefully. The Lakers currently face hard cap restrictions depending on their decisions with Russell, Austin Reaves, and other key rotational players. Adding Finney-Smith’s $14.9 million salary could limit flexibility unless accompanying contracts are moved or restructured.
Finney-Smith’s Perspective
Though Finney-Smith has remained professional and largely silent about his trade status, reports out of Brooklyn suggest he’s open to a new situation—preferably one where he can contend for a championship. After spending the last two years with a rebuilding Nets team, a move to Los Angeles could reinvigorate his role and showcase his value on a larger stage.
“He’s the kind of guy who thrives in competitive environments,” a former Nets assistant told Yahoo Sports. “He’s not flashy, but if you’re a team that wants to win, you want him on your roster.”
How He Fits with LeBron and AD
Perhaps the most intriguing element of this potential move is how seamlessly Finney-Smith could integrate alongside the Lakers’ superstar duo—LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Both veterans have historically thrived with strong defensive role players who can shoot from deep and guard multiple positions.
Finney-Smith’s low-usage offensive game means he won’t demand touches, and his willingness to take on tough defensive assignments could preserve LeBron’s energy and limit Davis’ wear-and-tear during the regular season.
“He does all the dirty work,” said NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins on NBA Today. “That’s exactly what this Lakers team needs around Bron and AD—guys who can make life easier for the stars.”
What It Means for the Lakers’ Free Agency Plans
While all eyes are on the Lakers’ rumored pursuit of marquee free agents—such as Klay Thompson or DeMar DeRozan—landing Finney-Smith could be a savvy, underrated move that positions the team for deeper postseason success. His addition wouldn’t preclude a major signing but would bring balance to a roster sometimes criticized for being top-heavy.
Moreover, Finney-Smith’s arrival would signal a cultural shift toward defense-first basketball under Redick, who has emphasized team IQ, spacing, and switchability in early interviews.
Final Thoughts
The Lakers’ reported interest in Dorian Finney-Smith may not generate the same level of social media frenzy as superstar rumors, but make no mistake—it’s a potential difference-maker. With the Western Conference as competitive as ever and LeBron James entering Year 23, the margin for error is razor thin. Smart, gritty acquisitions like Finney-Smith could be the glue holding a title contender together.
As free agency approaches, expect the Lakers to remain aggressive on all fronts and don’t be surprised if Finney-Smith is wearing purple and gold by mid-July.
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