Finney-Smith Shines as Lakers Edge Mavericks Amid Doncic’s Emotional Return

LOS ANGELES, California — In a matchup filled with anticipation, the Los Angeles Lakers edged the Dallas Mavericks 107-99 at Crypto.com Arena on February 25, 2025. This game marked Luka Dončić’s emotional return to face his former team, having recently been traded from the Mavericks. While much of the spotlight was on Dončić, it was Dorian Finney-Smith‘s contributions that underscored the Lakers’ victory.

Finney-Smith, who joined the Lakers in a trade with Brooklyn earlier this season, has quickly made a significant impact, evident in his impressive +162 plus/minus, the second-best on the team. Known primarily for his defensive prowess, Finney-Smith’s performance on Tuesday night included crucial plays that didn’t necessarily show up in the box score, but were integral to the Lakers’ success.

“We don’t win the game if Bron doesn’t take over, and we don’t win the game if Doe doesn’t make three massive plays,” said Lakers head coach J.J. Redick after the game, referencing key contributions from both LeBron James and Finney-Smith. “He led the charge down the stretch of just making winning basketball plays.”

Despite finishing the game with only two points, Finney-Smith showcased his valuable skill set by coming up with steals, offensive rebounds, and setting key screens throughout the match. Finney-Smith’s ability to impact the game extends beyond scoring, proving vital for a Lakers team in search of consistent 3-and-D players.

LeBron James expressed confidence in Finney-Smith’s abilities, noting, “We knew exactly what we were getting when we got him. He’s a winning player; he makes winning plays.” This sentiment echoes through the Lakers locker room, particularly as the team has battled through recent ups and downs.

Dončić himself had a notable night, recording 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists for his first triple-double as a Laker. His performance, characterized by both skill and leadership, helped the Lakers cement a critical win against the team that once celebrated him as its cornerstone.

The emotional atmosphere of the game was palpable as Dončić was greeted with cheers from fans donned in Mavericks gear before stepping onto the court. The significance of his return was not lost on him, with Finney-Smith commenting, “We know he’s got our back. It’s going to be a hard-fought game.”

As the Lakers continue their pursuit of a playoff spot, the recent addition of Dončić has altered their landscape significantly, bringing with it the potential for greater offensive opportunities. Despite criticism regarding his early performance, Finney-Smith humorously noted the benefits of sharing the court with Dončić and LeBron, stating he’s been getting “butt-naked wide-open” shots since their arrival.

Redick’s strategies have also played a pivotal role in the team’s defensive performance over the last months. The Lakers now rank tied for fourth in points allowed per 100 possessions since January 1, despite losing longtime defensive anchor Anthony Davis in the trade. His absence has been offset by the Lakers’ newfound perimeter length and defensive schemes tailored by Redick.

The Lakers’ ability to maintain competitive defense while integrating a high-octane offensive talent like Dončić not only speaks to their adaptability but also sets the stage for an exciting final stretch of the season. As both players and coaches optimize their strategies, the road ahead promises the thrill of playoff contention.