Dorian Finney-Smith signs four-year deal, $53 million with Rockets

The Dorian Finney-Smith era is over in Los Angeles as he will sign a multi-year deal with the Rockets.

While the Lakers are trying to reshape their roster in NBA free agency, they’ve suffered a big blow.

Dorian Finney-Smith is set to sign with the Houston Rockets on a four-year, $53 million deal, as first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN.

The departure of Finney-Smith means the Lakers will now have the full mid-level exception to use. It also helps clear up the glut of power forwards that were on the roster. But, most importantly, it leaves a big hole to fill.

It’s a blow for the Lakers because DFS was exactly the kind of 3-and-D wing the Lakers needed, which is why they traded D’Angelo Russell to acquire him back in December. But after he declined his $15.4 million player option, the Rockets quickly became a threat to lure away the wing even as the Lakers had a “strong interest” in retaining him.

Given the years and the dollar amount, DFS made the decision that was best for his future and the Lakers balked at the idea of offering that much long-term money to a 32-year-old wing.

Finney-Smith averaged 7.9 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists on the season while shooting 39.8% from 3-point range. While his averages don’t jump off the page, his positive impact on the team was undeniable. He led the Lakers in plus-minus in the regular season, with L.A. being a +268 when Finney-Smith was on the court.

Now the Lakers will have to figure out how to replace Finney-Smith’s impact and perimeter defense this offseason.

Recent reports have indicated that the Lakers could be considering De’Anthony Melton as a potential replacement for DFS. Los Angeles and Melton have reportedly expressed a “strong mutual interest” in reaching a deal.

Melton doesn’t come with the chemistry, production, or health that DFS offers, but he’s a solid defensive player who is also significantly younger.

Regardless of whether L.A. goes with Melton or some other player, they’ll have to find some players who can produce and defend around the perimeter now that DFS is gone.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.