Los Angeles Lakers forward Dorian Finney-Smith has decided to decline his $15.4 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season, opting to enter free agency instead, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. This decision opens the door for multiple contending teams to pursue Finney-Smith, starting Monday night, with a potential return to the Lakers still on the table.
The Lakers find themselves in a pivotal offseason, especially with LeBron James recently opting into his contract. The implications of Finney-Smith’s decision are significant not only for his future but also for the Lakers’ roster construction moving forward. If Finney-Smith chooses to sign elsewhere, the Lakers will have to navigate the complexities of free agency with the knowledge that they traded three second-round picks to acquire him from the Brooklyn Nets just last season.
As the Lakers look to build a championship-contending team, they have a few financial avenues to explore. If Finney-Smith opts out and signs with a new team, the Lakers will have access to the $14.1 million non-tax mid-level exception (MLE). Conversely, should he decide to stay, they would have the $5.7 million tax MLE available. However, utilizing amounts exceeding $5.7 million would trigger the first apron, complicating their financial flexibility.
NBA analysts and insiders have been buzzing about the potential impact of Finney-Smith’s decision. Bobby Marks, an ESPN analyst, highlighted that if Finney-Smith opts out, the Lakers’ financial strategy will shift significantly. They would be limited to salary matches in trades and restricted in their use of the biannual exception, which could affect their roster depth.
The Lakers are clearly focused on assembling a competitive team capable of contending in the Western Conference. With centers like Brook Lopez, Clint Capela, and Al Horford available in the market, the team is actively exploring options to enhance their roster. Finney-Smith’s decision will play a critical role in shaping the Lakers’ strategy as they aim to build around their star players, including LeBron James.
Finney-Smith’s potential departure would not only impact the Lakers but also create ripples throughout the league. His versatility as a forward and defensive capabilities make him an attractive target for teams looking to bolster their rosters. Reports suggest that teams across the league are keenly interested in acquiring him, particularly those in contention for a championship.
If Finney-Smith were to opt in for the $15.4 million, he would become eligible to sign a lucrative four-year deal worth approximately $96.5 million after the free agent moratorium lifts on July 6. While he has expressed interest in returning to Los Angeles, the prospect of securing a multi-year deal elsewhere could be tempting.
The Lakers’ offseason strategy hinges on Finney-Smith’s decision, as his departure would not only mean losing a valuable player but also raise questions about the effectiveness of their recent trade. The organization has invested in building a cohesive locker room culture, and losing a player like Finney-Smith could disrupt that dynamic.
As the clock ticks down to the start of free agency, all eyes will be on Finney-Smith and his next move. His decision carries significant weight, not just for himself but for the future of the Los Angeles Lakers and the broader landscape of the NBA. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the situation unfolds, eager to see where this talented forward will land and how it will impact the league’s competitive balance.
In summary, Dorian Finney-Smith’s choice to decline his player option and enter free agency marks a crucial moment in the Lakers’ offseason. With various teams vying for his services, the next few days will be pivotal in determining both his future and the trajectory of the Lakers as they strive to reclaim their championship status in the league.