Lakers' Dorian Finney-Smith makes feelings known on embracing versatile role under JJ Redick’s coaching

Dorian Finney-Smith talks about his role for the Lakers offensively and defensively (Photo credits: IMAGN, lakers on Instagram)
Dorian Finney-Smith talks about his role for the Lakers offensively and defensively (Photo credits: IMAGN, lakers on Instagram)

The LA Lakers found their 3-and-D wing when they acquired Dorian Finney-Smith via trade from the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday. Finney-Smith now transitions from a team that is trying to rebuild to a team that is hoping they've got enough left in the tank for another title run.

Finney-Smith is yet to play a game for the Lakers, but his role seems to already be clearly defined. He is expected to be a defensive stopper and expected to guard multiple positions by coach JJ Redick.

The defensive stalwart was asked about this while speaking with members of the media, including Sportskeeda's Mark Medina. This is what he had to say about defending multiple positions for LA.

"Just being a versatile guy," Finney-Smith said. "When they do want me to play small, we got that option."

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The 6-foot-7 forward also talked about being an option on offense by being a screener on a pick-and-pop. He also mentioned spacing the floor by being ready to shoot when that's what JJ Redick asks of him.

Dorian Finney-Smith might be viewed mostly as a defensive stopper. However, it is clear that he is also ready to make an impact on the offensive end of the ball when his number is called.

This season, Finney-Smith averaged 10.4 points for the Brooklyn Nets. He had an efficient 43.5% shooting clip from behind the 3-point line with an average of 5.4 attempts per game beyond the arc.

With LeBron James and Anthony Davis commanding most of the attention from opposing defenses, Finney-Smith could find himself open for deep shots more often.

Also read: When will Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton make their LA Lakers debut?


Dorian Finney-Smith talks about playing with Anthony Davis on the Lakers

LA just created a solid defensive frontcourt with Dorian Finney-Smith and Anthony Davis together. Finney-Smith could switch on guards while Davis can keep the paint locked down.

However, the latest Lakers acquisition also seems excited at how they can work together on offense. While speaking with the media, Finney-Smith shared how he can help create looks on offense when both he and Davis are on the floor.

Lakers reporter Mike Trudell got a quote from the former Nets forward on how he and Davis could gel on offense.

"He draws so much attention," Finney-Smith was quoted as saying. "He's going to create close outs and shots for guys like me. Offensive-rebound opportunities, because two people have to go box him out - we used to have to sandwich rebound, he was one of those guys.
"Now, two people going to him, I get to come in freely and grab some offensive rebounds. Just try to play off him and give him confidence.

Finney-Smith also seems excited about defensive matchups with Davis as the last line of defense behind him.

"For sure, when you got him behind you, you can take more risk, especially in passing lanes," Finney-Smith said about Davis. "You have one of the best shot blockers in the league, ever. It's going to be fun. He also can switch too."

With the acquisition of Dorian Finney-Smith, JJ Redick could do some experiments with his starting lineup.

Finney-Smith could come in at either forward position with LeBron James while Davis plays the five. Meanwhile, Rui Hachimura can play from the bench as the sixth man.

With his switchability, it doesn't matter where Finney-Smith plays from. However, it could take some time for them to figure out what the lineup would look like moving forward. This is especially true if they are planning to make a few more moves ahead of the trade deadline.

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Edited by Akshay Saraswat
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