Dorian Finney-Smith stands as a prime example of such a player. Often flying under the radar amidst the league’s superstar narratives, Finney-Smith has solidified himself as a crucial two-way forward, capable of impacting the game on both ends of the court. His journey, marked by resilience and continuous improvement, has made him a respected figure among teammates, coaches, and fans alike.

Early Life and College Career: Forging the Foundation

 He honed his basketball skills at I.C. Norcom High School, where he showcased his all-around abilities, averaging impressive numbers and leading his team to consecutive Group AAA championships. His stellar high school career earned him recognition as a two-time VHSL Class AAA Player of the Year, setting the stage for his collegiate endeavors.

Finney-Smith initially stayed in his home state, playing for Virginia Tech. He made an immediate impact, earning ACC All-Freshman honors. However, a coaching change led him to transfer to the University of Florida. After sitting out a season due to transfer rules, he became a cornerstone for the Gators.   His versatility was evident as he showcased his scoring prowess, rebounding tenacity, and improving three-point shooting. His senior year accolades included being named second-team All-SEC by the coaches and third-team All-SEC by the Associated Press, solidifying his status as a well-rounded and impactful player.

NBA Journey: From Undrafted to Indispensable

Despite a productive college career, Finney-Smith went undrafted in the 2016 NBA draft. This setback, however, did not deter his aspirations. He signed with the Dallas Mavericks as a free agent, marking the beginning of his professional journey. Initially seen as a developmental project, Finney-Smith quickly proved his worth through his relentless defense, rebounding, and willingness to do the dirty work.

The Dallas Mavericks Era (2016-2023): Establishing a Role

In Dallas, Finney-Smith carved out a significant role as a versatile forward. His defensive tenacity allowed him to guard multiple positions effectively, often taking on the toughest assignments against the opponent’s primary scorers. His rebounding, especially on the offensive end, provided second-chance opportunities for his team. While his offensive game was initially a work in progress, he steadily improved his three-point shooting, becoming a reliable floor spacer.

Over his six-plus seasons with the Mavericks, Finney-Smith’s minutes and responsibilities increased.  His blue-collar work ethic and team-first attitude resonated with the Mavericks’ organization and fanbase. He played a crucial role in the Mavericks’ playoff runs, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

The Brooklyn Nets Stint (2023-2024): A Change of Scenery

 This move provided him with a new environment and a different set of expectations. In Brooklyn, he continued to showcase his two-way abilities, providing the Nets with much-needed defense and floor spacing. He quickly became a valuable veteran presence on a team looking to solidify its playoff contention.

Los Angeles Lakers (2024-Present): Championship Aspirations

 This move reunited him with former teammate Luka Dončić, albeit on a different team, and placed him on a Lakers squad with championship aspirations. His arrival was seen as a significant boost to the Lakers’ defense and perimeter shooting, addressing key needs for the team.

Playing Style and Strengths: The Definition of a Modern Role Player

 His game is characterized by several key strengths:

Versatile Defense: This is arguably Finney-Smith’s most significant asset. He possesses the size, strength, and agility to guard multiple positions, from opposing point guards to power forwards. His ability to switch defensively and contain dribble penetration makes him a valuable asset in various defensive schemes. He is known for his active hands, disrupting passing lanes and securing steals.

Three-Point Shooting: Over his NBA career, Finney-Smith has developed into a reliable three-point shooter. His ability to space the floor is crucial for creating driving lanes for his teammates and punishing defenses that overhelp. He has shown the capability to knock down open looks consistently, making him a threat in catch-and-shoot situations. In the 2024-2025 season, he shot an impressive 41.1% from beyond the arc.

Rebounding: Despite not being a traditional center or power forward in terms of size, Finney-Smith is a tenacious rebounder, particularly on the offensive glass. His effort and positioning allow him to secure crucial extra possessions for his team.

High Basketball IQ and Team Player: Finney-Smith is known for his understanding of the game and his willingness to do whatever it takes to help his team win. He makes smart decisions with the ball, rarely forces shots, and is a reliable passer. His unselfishness and team-first attitude make him a respected figure in the locker room.

Durability and Reliability: Throughout his career, Finney-Smith has proven to be a durable and reliable player, consistently playing significant minutes and rarely missing games due to injury. This dependability is invaluable for any team with championship aspirations.

Contract Details and Future Outlook

As of May 2025, Dorian Finney-Smith is under contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. His salary for the 2024-2025 season is $14,386,320, with a cap hit of $14,924,167. The final year of his contract, the 2025-2026 season, includes a player option worth $15,378,480.

Recent reports suggest that Finney-Smith has not yet given much thought to his player option for the 2025-2026 season, focusing instead on the Lakers’ playoff performance. However, given his valuable skill set and the demand for versatile two-way forwards in the league, he is expected to have significant leverage in any potential free agency negotiations should he decline his option. The Lakers, holding his Bird rights, will be in a position to offer him a new contract to remain with the team. Retaining Finney-Smith is considered a vital component of the Lakers’ offseason plans, as his contributions on both ends of the floor were instrumental in their improved performance after his acquisition.

Community Involvement: Giving Back Beyond the Court

Off the court, Dorian Finney-Smith is actively involved in giving back to his community. He co-founded the Finney Family First Foundation, an organization with the mission to “inspire the youth to become productive members of society by providing service to the community.” Through his foundation, Finney-Smith organizes annual Community Love Days in his hometown of Portsmouth, Virginia, providing resources and support to local families.

He has also been involved in various charitable initiatives in the Dallas area during his time with the Mavericks, including donating hundreds of turkeys to families in need during the Thanksgiving season. His commitment to making a positive impact off the court reflects his character and values.

Final Thoughts

Dorian Finney-Smith’s journey in the NBA is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and a team-first mentality. From going undrafted to becoming an indispensable two-way forward on a championship-contending team, his rise has been earned through relentless effort and continuous improvement. His defensive versatility, reliable three-point shooting, and high basketball IQ make him a valuable asset to the Los Angeles Lakers. Beyond his on-court contributions, his commitment to community involvement further underscores his character. As he navigates his future in the league, Dorian Finney-Smith remains a compelling story of an underrated player who has carved out a significant and respected career through dedication and unwavering commitment to the game. His impact extends beyond the box score, making him a true linchpin for any team he plays for.

FAQs

Who is Dorian Finney-Smith? 

Dorian Finney-Smith is a professional basketball player in the NBA known for his versatile defense, three-point shooting, and rebounding. He currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers.

What is Dorian Finney-Smith’s background? 

He was born in Portsmouth, Virginia, excelled in high school basketball, and played college basketball at Virginia Tech and the University of Florida.

What is Dorian Finney-Smith known for on the court? 

He is primarily known for his versatile defense, ability to guard multiple positions, reliable three-point shooting, and tenacious rebounding.

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