There have been a few key storylines that have already dominated when it comes to the upcoming 2025 offseason for the Los Angeles Lakers. The Luka Doncic extension saga has taken up the majority of the headlines, and rightfully so. The pursuit of a long-term solution at the center position has been another pivotal conversation point for good reason too. Even the talk LeBron James' looming player option has gotten some of its due. All of this has not left room for much else.
That being said, Lakers fans would be wise in paying attention to Dorian Finney-Smith. The 2024-25 NBA season picked up momentum for Los Angeles pretty clearly after the two-way forward joined the team. Despite the marriage appearing to be a happy one now, there is no guarantee it will last forever, and that should be concerning.
Finney-Smith opens up on impending free agency in recent interview
Finney-Smith is currently playing out the last guaranteed season of his contract before a looming player option for the 2025-26 season. That player option represents a healthy $15.4 million for the following campaign. Even so, there could be more than enough reason for the Lakers wing to test the market.
At an initial glance, Finney-Smith and his production may not appear to warrant a significant pay raise from that which he is already receiving and would be set to receive by picking up his option. The versatile defender has only averaged 8.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game, with shooting splits of 44-39-67 in 2024-25. Those numbers actually look worse in certain areas when just assessing only his time in Los Angeles.
Despite that, Finney-Smith represents one of the most in-demand archetypes around the NBA. Furthermore, his defensive value is an aspect of his game that cannot adequately be reflected in the box score. Finney-Smith has been an excellent addition to the Lakers with units he has been a part of thriving around him.
The role of glue guy is one that the nine-year pro can play at any future destination. That will make him an attractive addition for contenders looking to boost their team.
When speaking with Michael Scotto in a recent interview, Finney-Smith appeared to suggest a discount for Los Angeles was not in the cards.
"You see what just happened with Luka? 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," the veteran forward told Scotto while smiling.
This could prove a challenging situation for a team like the Lakers who are set to already have a lot on their plate, as mentioned above, and will have to navigate a tough situation financially.
The optimist in the room will say that while Finney-Smith may not take a discount, perhaps James will. LeBron took a smaller rate than he could have last offseason and the prospects of winning another championship in his legendary career would certainly offer strong motivation.
This certainly is not a 'hit the panic button' type of scenario. However, adding a notable payday for Finney-Smith to the long list of tasks on Rob Pelinka's offseason checklist should be reasonably worrisome.
