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3-and-D Favorite Dorian Finney-Smith Lands $53 Million Deal From West Contender

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Joshua Rosenblum | Last updated Jun 30, 2025 8:53 PM ET

In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, forward Dorian Finney-Smith has agreed to a four-year, $53 million contract with the Houston Rockets, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania.

The deal, finalized on Monday night, marks a significant coup for the Rockets, who are emerging as a formidable contender in the Western Conference and just landed superstar forward Kevin Durant.

Finney-Smith, who declined a $15.4 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025-26 season, brings his elite 3-and-D skills to a Rockets squad hungry for playoff success.

Known for his tenacious defense and reliable three-point shooting—hitting over 41% from beyond the arc last season—Finney-Smith fills a critical void left by the departure of Dillon Brooks.

His versatility and ability to attack closeouts make him a perfect fit alongside the Rockets' young core, including stars like Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun.

The 32-year-old’s best NetRtg of +11.1 during his Lakers tenure underscores his impact, a stat that bodes well for the Rockets’ defensive identity.

The Lakers’ decision to let Finney-Smith walk has sparked outrage among their fanbase, with many viewing it as a missed opportunity to bolster their roster.

Meanwhile, Rockets fans are ecstatic, with social media buzzing about a projected starting five that could challenge the West’s elite.

Despite a recent ankle surgery, Finney-Smith is expected to be ready for training camp, ensuring he’ll hit the ground running.

This signing not only strengthens Houston’s coffers but also signals their intent to compete now, making Finney-Smith a cornerstone in their rise to prominence.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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