The Houston Rockets made the first big splash of the offseason by acquiring Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns. Once NBA free agency opens, it appears Houston will pull another key player away from a Western Conference contender.
On Monday morning, Dan Woike of The Athletic reported that the Los Angeles Lakers were expecting to lose Dorian Finney-Smith to the Rockets. Shortly after, NBA insider Marc Stein reported on his Substack that Houston is “believed to be readying” a four-year contract offer for Finney-Smith once NBA free agency opens.
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Finney-Smith, a 6-foot-7 forward, declined his $15.4 million option for the 2025-26 season that would have kept him with the Lakers. While Los Angeles wanted to bring him back, it quickly became clear to people around the league that the Rockets were positioning themselves to land the veteran wing.
Heading into his age-32 season, Finney-Smith’s deal could keep him with Houston through his age-35 campaign. At this time, it’s unknown if the four-year contract offer will include an option for the final season.
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Finney-Smith opened last season with the Brooklyn Nets, scoring 10.4 points per game with 2.4 three-pointers made per contest in 20 starts. Los Angeles acquired him in December 2024, trading three future second-round picks and D’Angelo Russell in return.
Assuming he signs with the Rockets, Finney-Smith would provide depth behind Tari Eason, Kevin Durant, and Jabari Smith Jr. Notably, forward Cam Whitmore has surfaced in NBA rumors as a potential trade candidate this summer amid the team’s interest in Finney-Smith.
NFL, MLB & college football writer for Sportsnaut. Graduated from San Diego State University with BA in Journalism, 2019. ... More about Matt Johnson