The Los Angeles Lakers’ decision to let Dorian Finney-Smith walk as a free agent sent shockwaves through the NBA, especially after the high-profile trade that brought him to LA. Acquired from the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for D’Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round draft picks, Finney-Smith quickly became a fan favorite in just 43 games with the Purple and Gold. His gritty defense, versatility, and chemistry with newly acquired superstar Luka Doncic made him a vital piece of the Lakers’ roster. So why would the Lakers let a player of his caliber decline his $15.4 million player option and sign a four-year deal with the Houston Rockets? The answer lies in a bold, calculated move by GM Rob Pelinka that has left the league stunned.
A Strategic Overhaul: LaRavia and Ayton Join the Lakers
Rather than re-sign Finney-Smith, the Lakers pivoted, securing two younger, high-upside players: Jake LaRavia and Deandre Ayton. LaRavia, a forward from the Sacramento Kings, inked a two-year, $12 million deal, while Ayton, the former No. 1 overall pick, signed a two-year, $16.6 million contract after a buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers. These moves weren’t just about replacing Finney-Smith—they were about reshaping the Lakers’ roster for long-term success while staying financially savvy.
Comparing the Players: Stats and Fit
Let’s break down the numbers for the 2024-25 season to understand the impact of this roster shakeup:
|
Player |
Points (PPG) |
Rebounds (RPG) |
Assists (APG) |
Position
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dorian Finney-Smith |
8.7 |
3.9 |
1.4 |
SF/PF |
|
Jake LaRavia |
6.9 |
3.9 |
2.4 |
PF |
|
Deandre Ayton |
14.4 |
10.2 |
1.6 |
C |
While Finney-Smith brought defensive tenacity and wing versatility, LaRavia and Ayton offer a more balanced skill set. LaRavia, a 23-year-old power forward, provides comparable rebounding with better playmaking, averaging 2.4 assists per game. Ayton, at 26, addresses the Lakers’ need for a dominant center, contributing 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds per game. Together, they fill critical gaps in the frontcourt, complementing Luka Doncic’s playstyle with rebounding, interior presence, and youthful energy.
The Financial Masterstroke
In an NBA landscape where avoiding the second apron is paramount, Pelinka’s moves are a masterclass in cap management. The combined average annual salary of LaRavia and Ayton for the 2025-26 season is $14.3 million—$1.1 million less than Finney-Smith’s $15.4 million player option. This savings gives the Lakers flexibility to pursue additional role players or absorb contracts in future trades, all while maintaining a competitive roster.
Youth Over Experience: A Long-Term Vision
At 32, Finney-Smith is a proven veteran, but his age limits his long-term fit with a contending team. In contrast, LaRavia (23) and Ayton (26) represent a youth movement that aligns with the Lakers’ championship window, especially alongside Luka Doncic. Ayton’s rim protection and rebounding add a new dimension to the frontcourt, while LaRavia’s hustle and passing make him a glue guy who can grow into a larger role. This duo not only saves money but also extends the Lakers’ contention timeline.
Why the League Is Stunned
The Lakers’ decision to let Finney-Smith walk was initially met with criticism, with fans and analysts labeling them the “losers” of free agency. But Pelinka’s vision has flipped the narrative. By prioritizing youth, cap flexibility, and positional balance, the Lakers have quietly built a roster that’s deeper and more sustainable. The addition of Ayton, a former top pick with something to prove, and LaRavia, a rising talent, signals that the Lakers are playing chess while others play checkers.
The Verdict: A Contender Reborn
The Lakers’ bold move to replace Dorian Finney-Smith with Deandre Ayton and Jake LaRavia is a gamble that’s already paying dividends. With a more balanced roster, significant cap savings, and a younger core, the Purple and Gold are poised to shock the league in the 2025-26 season. Opponents beware: the Lakers are coming, and they’re built to last.