Dorian Finney-Smith has agreed to a four-year, $53 million contract with the Houston Rockets, marking a significant move in free agency.
The veteran forward opted out of his $15.4 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025-26 season following extended negotiations, ultimately choosing long-term security and a larger role in Houston.
Finney-Smith, represented by Michael Tellem, brings valuable 3-and-D skills to a Rockets team looking to build depth and experience on the wing.
Known for his defensive versatility and reliable outside shooting, he averaged 8.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists last season while connecting on 41.1 percent of his three-point attempts across stints with the Brooklyn Nets and Lakers.
He also recently underwent offseason ankle surgery but is expected to be ready for the upcoming season.
While the Lakers had hoped to retain Finney-Smith, their limited financial flexibility, specifically, the lack of access to the non-taxpayer midlevel exception, made it difficult to match Houston’s offer.
Los Angeles reportedly was unwilling to go beyond a two-year commitment, as the franchise continues to focus on preserving salary cap space for a potential marquee signing in 2027.
With Finney-Smith joining a Rockets team with a clear direction and growing talent base, both sides view the deal as a strong fit moving forward.
Dorian Finney-Smith, Rockets Agree To Four-Year, $53M Deal https://t.co/WHWzykClf8
— RealGM (@RealGM) June 30, 2025
