The Lakers decided not to re-sign Dorian Finney-Smith, a move that disappointed many fans, particularly in light of his new four-year, $53 million deal with the Houston Rockets. While the Lakers claimed to preserve cap space for the upcoming 2027 free agency, the structure of Finney-Smith's contract would not have impacted their long-term plans. Instead, the Lakers prioritized signing Deandre Ayton and Jake LaRavia, resulting in a roster hard-capped just below the cap apron with significant salaries committed for the coming season.
The Houston Rockets signed Dorian Finney-Smith to a four-year, $53 million deal, which is fully guaranteed the first two seasons, has a third-year non-guaranteed salary, and a fourth-year non-guaranteed salary and player option.
The Lakers exercised discipline in negotiations with Finney-Smith to preserve cap space for 2027, knowing both Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokić could become free agents.
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