Los Angeles Lakers forward Dorian Finney-Smith underwent surgery on his left ankle, according to ESPN
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The 32-year-old veteran opted for the procedure to address lingering ankle issues that plagued him last season, causing him to miss eight games after his mid-season trade from the Brooklyn Nets. Similar to how a quarterback might undergo offseason shoulder surgery to ensure they’re ready for the rigors of the upcoming season,Finney-Smith is taking proactive steps to ensure his availability.
The Lakers anticipate Finney-Smith will be fully recovered and ready for the start of the 2025 preseason under the guidance of new head coach JJ Redick.This timeline is crucial for the Lakers, who are looking to integrate Finney-Smith’s defensive prowess into their revamped system.
Last season, Finney-Smith averaged 7.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists, solidifying his role as a key defensive starter. His contributions frequently enough go beyond the box score, similar to how a shutdown cornerback’s impact isn’t always reflected in interception numbers.
Finney-Smith is entering the final year of his contract, which includes a $15.37 million player option. This decision could be pivotal for both Finney-Smith and the Lakers, as his performance next season will heavily influence his future earning potential and the Lakers’ roster decisions.
While some might question the timing of the surgery, given the relatively short offseason, the Lakers are betting that a healthy Finney-Smith is essential for their championship aspirations.The risk of playing through pain and potentially exacerbating the injury outweighed the benefits of delaying the procedure.
Further investigation could explore the specific type of ankle surgery Finney-Smith underwent and the Lakers’ contingency plans should his recovery be delayed. Fans will be closely monitoring his progress throughout the offseason.
Dorian Finney-Smith’s Ankle Surgery: A Deep Dive into the Lakers’ Strategy
Table of Contents
To provide a more Finney-Smith’s Impact: Beyond the Box Score
Dorian Finney-Smith’s value to the Lakers extends far beyond the standard statistics. While his 7.9 points per game last season don’t leap off the page, they Key Statistics & Comparisons
To better understand Finney-Smith’s on-court impact, consider the following table:
| Metric | 2023-2024 Season Average | Career Average (through 2024) | Comparison to Key Lakers | Notes |
|———————–|—————————|——————————-|—————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Points Per Game (PPG) | 7.9 | 8.5 | LeBron James (25.7 PPG) | Provides scoring, but primarily a defensive player. |
| Rebounds Per Game (RPG) | 3.6 | 4.7 | Anthony Davis (12.6 RPG) | Contributes on the boards, particularly vital for defensive rebounding. |
| Assists Per Game (APG) | 1.4 | 1.5 | D’Angelo Russell (6.2 APG) | Not a primary playmaker, but contributes to ball movement. |
| Defensive Rating | 112 | 111 | – | Shows Defensive presence and impact.|
| Games Missed (23-24) | 8 | – | – | Ankle injury affected availability last year. |
The Surgery and the 2025 Season
The timing of the surgery, while occurring during a relatively short offseason, demonstrates the Lakers’ proactive approach. By addressing the ankle issues now, they’re prioritizing Finney-Smith’s availability and performance for the 2025-2026 season. It is key to note that their plans hinge on him being completely ready for the beginning of the season [[1]].
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common inquiries surrounding Dorian Finney-Smith’s surgery, along with expert insights:
Q: what type of ankle surgery did Dorian Finney-Smith have?
A: While the precise nature of the surgery has not been divulged, it’s safe to assume the procedure addressed the ligament or structural issues that caused the lingering pain. Further details will likely emerge closer to the training camp.
Q: How will this surgery affect his contract situation?
A: Finney-Smith is entering the final year of his contract,with a player option worth $15.37 million. A healthy and effective season will significantly influence his value and the Lakers’ decision-making regarding extending or trading him. This includes deciding to ensure his health which is “having all necessary parts, elements, or steps” for his game to work [[3]].
Q: What are the Lakers’ contingency plans if Finney-Smith’s recovery is delayed?
A: The Lakers have a deep roster. They will lean on other forwards and may explore roster additions if necessary. Coach Redick will need to be prepared to adapt.
Q: Can the Lakers win a championship with Dorian Finney-Smith?
A: Absolutely. His contributions on defense, his ability to contain opposing stars, and his understanding of the team’s system have been crucial in the past. The lakers’ championship aspirations rely on a healthy and effective Finney-Smith.
Q: When is Finney-Smith expected to return to the court?
A: The Lakers are aiming for Finney-Smith to be fully recovered by the start of the 2025 preseason. Any deviation from this timeline will be closely watched.
Conclusion
Dorian Finney-Smith’s surgery is a strategic maneuver by both the player and the Lakers, aimed at ensuring long-term success. His health,coupled with the team’s approach,will play a significant role in whether the Lakers achieve their goals.It serves as a reminder that even in the NBA, the focus must always be on the “completeness” of the team [[1]]. continuing to follow his status and the team’s decisions will be paramount in the months ahead.
