dorian finney-smith

500 + Buzz 🇺🇸 US

Dorian Finney-Smith: Unlocking the Best Version of the Los Angeles Lakers

Main Narrative:

Dorian Finney-Smith, a power forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, has been making waves in the NBA with his impressive performances on the court. Despite being on a minute restriction due to an ankle injury, Finney-Smith has shown his ability to contribute significantly to the team's success. In a recent interview, Finney-Smith admitted that the minute restriction is "tough," but he is confident that his ankle is "getting better" (Lakers Nation).

Finney-Smith's journey with the Lakers began in February 2023, when he was acquired in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets. Since then, he has been a valuable addition to the team, providing multiple-positional defense and shooting 43.5% from three-point range this season (LeBron Wire).

Recent Updates:

  • January 22, 2025: Finney-Smith delivered his best stat line in a 111-88 win over the Washington Wizards, scoring 16 points (6-8 FG, 4-6 3Pt) and two rebounds over 22 minutes (ESPN).
  • January 21, 2025: JJ Redick, a teammate of Finney-Smith, discussed why the power forward hasn't received heavy minutes, citing his ankle injury as a factor (LeBron Wire).
  • January 21, 2025: Finney-Smith expressed his confidence in his ankle's recovery, stating that he is "getting better" (Lakers Nation).

Contextual Background:

Dorian Finney-Smith was born on May 4, 1993, in Washington, D.C. He played college basketball for Virginia Tech Hokies and Florida Gators before entering the NBA draft. Finney-Smith's professional career began with the Dallas Mavericks, where he spent his first seven seasons. He was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in February 2023 and later to the Lakers (Wikipedia).

Finney-Smith's journey is an example of perseverance and determination. Despite facing challenges, including an ankle injury, he has continued to contribute to the Lakers' success. His ability to adapt and overcome obstacles has made him a valuable asset to the team.

Immediate Effects:

Finney-Smith's performances have had a significant impact on the Lakers' success. His ability to provide multiple-positional defense and shoot from three-point range has made him a key player in the team's offense. Despite being on a minute restriction, Finney-Smith has shown that he can make a difference when given the opportunity.

The Lakers' acquisition of Finney-Smith in February 2023 has also had a positive impact on the team. The trade, which sent D'Angelo Russell to the Nets, has provided the Lakers with a valuable asset in Finney-Smith (LeBron Wire).

Future Outlook:

As Finney-Smith continues to recover from his ankle injury, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he will contribute to the Lakers' success in the future. With his impressive performances and ability to adapt to new situations, Finney-Smith has the potential to unlock the best version of the Los Angeles Lakers.

However, risks and challenges lie ahead. Finney-Smith's ankle injury may continue to be a concern, and his minute restriction may limit his playing time. Nevertheless, with his determination and perseverance, Finney-Smith is likely to continue making a significant impact on the Lakers' success.

Conclusion:

Dorian Finney-Smith's journey with the Los Angeles Lakers has been marked by challenges and triumphs. Despite facing an ankle injury and being on a minute restriction, Finney-Smith has shown his ability to contribute significantly to the team's success. As he continues to recover and adapt to new situations, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he will unlock the best version of the Lakers.

Key Statistics:

  • Dorian Finney-Smith averages 9.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game (Basketball-Reference.com).
  • Finney-Smith has won 0 championships throughout his career (Basketball-Reference.com).
  • Finney-Smith is active on Twitter, where he can be found at @doefinney_10 (Twitter).

Sources:

  • Lakers Nation: Dorian Finney-Smith Admits Minute Restriction With Lakers Is 'Tough' But Ankle Is 'Getting Better'
  • LeBron Wire: JJ Redick on why Dorian Finney-Smith hasn't gotten heavy minutes
  • Silver Screen and Roll: Dorian Finney-Smith shows he can be the key that unlocks the best version of the Lakers
  • ESPN: Dorian Finney-Smith - Los Angeles Lakers Power Forward
  • Wikipedia: Dorian Finney-Smith
  • Basketball-Reference.com: Dorian Finney-Smith
  • Twitter: @doefinney_10