Dorian Finney-Smith opts out of Los Angeles Lakers deal, Houston Rockets emerge as serious…

Dorian Finney-Smith has reportedly declined his $15.4 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025–26 NBA season. According to reports, the 32-year-old forward will enter unrestricted free agency, opening the door for multiple suitors. Most notably the Houston Rockets appeared to make their pitch. Finney-Smith’s decision follows a strong showing in L.A., where he quickly became a key contributor on both ends of the floor.

Houston Rockets reportedly targeting Dorian Finney-Smith after Los Angeles Lakers contract declined

Per NBA insiders Jake Fischer and Marc Stein, the Houston Rockets are showing early interest in acquiring Finney-Smith. The Rockets, fresh off a 53-win season and a major trade that landed them Kevin Durant, are aggressively shaping their roster for a deep postseason run. According to CapSheets.com’s Yossi Gozlan, Houston can offer the full $14.1 million mid-level exception or possibly more via a sign-and-trade involving Cam Whitmore and Jock Landale.

Finney-Smith is a coveted 3-and-D forward whose versatility fits well in Houston’s evolving system. With Fred VanVleet re-signing on a team-friendly deal and the Rockets clearing additional cap space, the franchise appears financially equipped to make a competitive offer.

Since being acquired by the Lakers in December from the Brooklyn Nets, Finney-Smith has carved out a major role. In 43 games with Los Angeles, he averaged 7.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists while shooting an efficient 39.8% from deep and 44.2% from the field. His defensive metrics further boost his value as he contributed 0.9 blocks and 2.7 defensive rebounds per game, guarding multiple positions effectively.

In the postseason, head coach JJ Redick leaned heavily on him. Finney-Smith logged 34 minutes per game during the Lakers’ five-game playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, averaging 6.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists.

The Rockets, with Durant, Alperen Şengün, Amen Thompson, and VanVleet already in place, could form one of the West’s most balanced starting units by adding Finney-Smith to the mix. His experience, having played 591 NBA games with the Dallas Mavericks, Brooklyn Nets, and Lakers, only adds to his appeal.