Lakers' Big Offseason Move Threatens $33M Guard

Major Offseason Moves and Implications for the Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have made a series of significant moves during the offseason, reshaping their roster in preparation for the upcoming season. These decisions have sparked discussions about the future of several key players, particularly those on the higher end of the salary scale.

One of the most notable departures was that of Dorian Finney-Smith, a 3-and-D swingman who had been a long-time friend of the new Lakers superstar guard, Luka Doncic. Finney-Smith opted to sign with the Houston Rockets on a four-year deal, which raised concerns among Lakers management, especially regarding the length of the contract rather than the financial value itself.

Key Additions and Their Impact

Among the most significant additions to the Lakers' roster is Marcus Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year. The team signed him to a two-season, $10.5 million contract. This move could pose challenges for Gabe Vincent, an incumbent guard known for his defensive focus. Smart's potential to disrupt the existing hierarchy within the team has been a point of discussion, as he brings a different style of play that may not align perfectly with Vincent's role.

Another major addition is Deandre Ayton, a former No. 1 pick in Doncic's draft. Ayton was bought out of his final year with the Portland Trail Blazers and signed a two-season, $16.2 million deal with the Lakers, including a player option for the 2026-27 season. While Ayton has shown effectiveness when healthy, his performance has declined compared to his peak years with the Phoenix Suns, particularly on defense. At just 27, his health issues are a concern, as he has missed an average of 34.5 games over his last two seasons.

Roster Adjustments and New Signings

In addition to these signings, the Lakers re-signed Jaxson Hayes, who served as a temporary solution after trading Anthony Davis for Luka Doncic. The team also added Jake LaRavia, a forward from the Memphis Grizzlies, on a two-season, $12 million deal. LaRavia could potentially take on some of the minutes previously occupied by Finney-Smith, along with Jarred Vanderbilt.

Challenges for Gabe Vincent

Gabe Vincent faces a tough road ahead, as his role on the team has been significantly reduced due to injuries. During the 2023-24 season, he only played in 11 games, and by the 2025 playoffs, he was relegated to a deep-bench position. Now, at 29, Vincent is under contract for the current season on an expiring $11.5 million deal, making him a potential trade candidate.

Marcus Smart presents a clear challenge to Vincent's position on the roster. Although Smart has faced injury issues in recent seasons, his past performance as a defensive force with the Boston Celtics suggests he could make Vincent expendable if he remains healthy. Whether Smart can live up to expectations will be a key factor in determining the team's defensive strategy moving forward.

Looking Ahead

As the Lakers continue to build their roster, the impact of these offseason moves will become more apparent. The balance between veteran experience and young talent, along with the health of key players, will play a crucial role in the team's success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these changes affect the overall dynamics of the team.