The Brooklyn Nets are at a crossroads as they transition into a rebuilding phase. Trading veteran wing Dorian Finney-Smith could be a smart move that opens up minutes for younger players, especially Ziaire Williams, who has the potential to grow into a key piece for Brooklyn's future.
Assessing Dorian Finney-Smith's value
Finney-Smith, a defensive specialist with playoff experience, may be better suited for a team looking to contend rather than a franchise in the early stages of a rebuild.
The veteran forward brings a set of defensive skills that could make him highly valuable to playoff contenders needing a versatile wing. Known for his ability to guard multiple positions, hit timely three-pointers, and play with energy, Finney-Smith is the type of player who can contribute immediately to a team aiming for postseason success.
While his skill set is valuable, Brooklyn should shift focus to giving younger players like Williams the chance to develop. With his length and athleticism, Williams has shown flashes of potential on both ends of the floor to be a younger version of Finney-Smith.
Who Would Be Interested?
Several teams could benefit from Dorian Finney-Smith's presence, especially contenders like the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, and Dallas Mavericks. Each has a unique need for a defensive-minded wing who can either come off the bench or slide into the starting rotation to match up against some of the league's elite forwards.
For the Knicks, adding a player like Finney-Smith would solidify their defensive depth on the perimeter. Finney-Smith could be a perfect fit in New York’s bench rotation, given the team's playoff ambitions and a focus on defensive tenacity under head coach Tom Thibodeau.
The Lakers would similarly benefit from his presence. Los Angeles is known for its star power in LeBron James and Anthony Davis, and thus, needs versatile wings to support their top scorers. Finney-Smith's ability to space the floor and defend would allow him to seamlessly integrate into their system.
A Dallas Reunion
Finally, the Dallas Mavericks are a strong suitor to bring Finney-Smith back and reunite him with Luka Doncic. His defensive skill set would bolster a Mavs roster in need of reliable defenders around Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Furthermore, Finney-Smith's familiarity with the Mavericks' system would make for a smooth transition and an immediate impact.
.@doefinney_10 puts the clamps on and we're headed to OT! pic.twitter.com/9rS7JqDqgT
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) November 9, 2024
Moving Finney-Smith benefits both him and the Nets, especially after the sudden trade of Mikal Bridges during the 2024 offseason. It allows Brooklyn to focus on developing its younger players while sending Finney-Smith to a team where his defensive skills could make an immediate impact. Moreover, the opening of minutes at the forward spot could allow Ziare Williams to take a massive jump.
Williams is already proving to be a Swiss Army Knife for the Nets with his improved shooting, defense, and rebounding, Through his first nine games with Brooklyn, the former 2021 lottery pick averages a career-high 9.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game on a 34.6 three-point shooting clip. Inserting him into the starting lineup might be key to further unlocking his potential.
Will Brooklyn eventually find an offer for Finney-Smith that pleases all parties?