Dorian Finney-Smith, 32, departs the Los Angeles Lakers after just one season and will join a revamped Rockets roster that recently added superstar Kevin Durant via trade.

Finney-Smith’s Move and Role in Houston

Finney-Smith’s deal was negotiated by his agent, Michael Tellem, and is expected to be structured with a trade kicker and a mutual option for the fourth year. After declining his $15.4 million player option with the Lakers, Finney-Smith became one of the more sought-after two-way wings on the market.

He averaged 8.7 points per game while shooting a career-high 41.4% from three-point range last season, splitting time between Brooklyn and Los Angeles. His defensive versatility and reliable perimeter shooting made him a key target for Houston, especially after the Rockets sent Dillon Brooks and Jalen Green to Phoenix in the Durant blockbuster, leaving a gap in their wing rotation.

In Houston, Finney-Smith is expected to play a significant role as a 3-and-D specialist, providing depth behind Durant, Jabari Smith Jr., and Amen Thompson. His ability to guard multiple positions and space the floor will be crucial for a Rockets team looking to build on last season’s second-place finish in the Western Conference.

The Rockets were eliminated in the first round by Golden State, and the addition of Finney-Smith is part of a broader effort to strengthen their defense and support their new-look core.

Impact on Lakers and Rockets

For the Lakers, losing Finney-Smith is a notable blow to their wing depth and defensive identity. Acquired in December from Brooklyn, he quickly became a trusted rotation player and was well-liked in the locker room. However, the Lakers were unable to match Houston’s long-term offer and pivoted to signing Jake LaRavia as a replacement.

For Houston, the signing is seen as a savvy move to replace the defensive presence and three-point shooting lost in the Brooks trade. Finney-Smith’s experience and consistency should complement the Rockets’ mix of veteran and young talent as they aim to contend in the West.

Finney-Smith, now on his fourth team in as many seasons, brings playoff experience and a proven skill set to a Rockets squad that has made clear its ambition to compete at the highest level in 2025-26.