The Los Angeles Lakers are already dealing with salary cap challenges, and things just got more complicated with the latest update on Dorian Finney-Smith.
Following the end of the season, Finney-Smith reportedly underwent ankle surgery to address an issue that had limited him during the 2025-26 campaign and in the Lakers’ playoff loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
While he’s expected to be ready for training camp, Finney-Smith has a decision to make—he can opt out of his $15.4 million player option before June 29. Additionally, he’s eligible to sign a contract extension with the Lakers, potentially locking in a new three- or four-year deal.
Dorian Finney-Smith was traded to the Lakers from the Brooklyn Nets in December in exchange for D’Angelo Russell and several second-round draft picks. Prior to the trade, he had missed games with the Nets because of an ankle injury, and after joining the Lakers, he sat out eight more games due to what was described as “ankle management.” According to ESPN, Finney-Smith has been struggling with this ankle problem for several years, which also caused discomfort in his left calf. The team believes he’ll be pain-free following a medical procedure.
The 32-year-old wing, who celebrated his birthday on May 4, started 20 regular season games for the Lakers, during which the team posted a 14-6 record. Overall, he appeared in 43 games for Los Angeles last season, with the team going 29-14 in those contests.
What’s Next for Dorian Finney-Smith?
A key question heading into the offseason is whether Dorian Finney-Smith will remain with the Lakers,
Finney-Smith has proven to be a valuable asset, having been traded twice in the last three seasons — first from Dallas to Brooklyn in March 2023, and then from Brooklyn to Los Angeles on December 29.
However, his price tag is set to rise. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, his current $15.4 million salary could increase significantly if the Lakers offer him a four-year extension worth up to $22.55 million annually. A more likely scenario, given he’s entering his ninth NBA season, is a three-year deal totaling around $54 million — which would translate to an $18 million annual cap hit.
The Lakers’ salary cap situation makes any potential contract increases—particularly for a role player like Finney-Smith—even more problematic. They are only $16 million below the highly limiting second apron, and with LeBron James holding a player option for the 2025-26 season, he could choose to opt out and secure a raise worth up to $56 million over the next two years.
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