3 Ways Lakers Could Lose More By Letting Dorian Finney-Smith Walk

After the Slovenian superstar arrived, his importance became more apparent. DFS was always with his former Mavericks teammate, helping him calm his nerves after the trade brought him to tears. Doncic needed a shoulder to lean on, and Finney-Smith was the man on the job.

Now that he is gone, it could have an impact on who is now expected to be the franchise’s cornerstone for the next decade or more. It probably was too soon to let DFS walk. Had the franchise coaxed him into picking up his player option, it could have helped them for the next season.

Understandably, the 26-year-old perennial All-NBA 1st-teamer is expected to be a professional. But every player needs a good friend on the team to feel comfortable. Again, his teammates would make him feel so, but DFS was the link to his past, and also was a good friend.

Dorian Finney-Smith’s exit could set the wrong example

When Dorian Finney-Smith signed with the Houston Rockets, quite a few people believed the decision was going to have a major impact on the Los Angeles Lakers players. Now, they might be jittery knowing that the franchise might not keep them for long.

For those who have struggled to hold their end of the bargain, such feelings should not be unexpected. But for those, such as DFS, who elevated the team, it could be heartbreaking. The forward had done more than enough to just be allowed to walk away.

Many attributed his effect on Jarred Vanderbilt‘s improved performances as a good enough reason for him to stay. However, the franchise wanted to clear cap space and figured it was better to let him go and sign cheaper and younger players. Not the best way to send a message to the players.

Lakers’ defense might struggle

Dorian Finney-Smith was largely the primary factor behind the Los Angeles Lakers’ improved defense. Even after Anthony Davis departed, and in came a usually defensively suspect Luka Doncic, their defense was still good.

Many believe the February 22nd win against the Denver Nuggets was a hallmark of that improved defense, and DFS’ fingerprints were all over it. Now with him gone, and the Lakers bringing in younger players, there is a chance that their defense might struggle.

For a team wanting to compete for a title, it is not the best way forward. Maybe they could have kept the 6′ 7 forward and figured it out next season. Instead, Finney-Smith might be helping the Rockets win a title this upcoming season.

All in all, the Los Angeles Lakers’ offseason so far has been questionable at best. Many believe the worst piece of business was to let Dorian Finney-Smith walk. Considering all the factors mentioned above, the front office should have kept him at all costs. They stand to lose out more than just avoiding paying him.