Doncic Pushes DFS:: Luka Doncic revealed he's actively telling Finney-Smith to take more shots, especially open 3-pointers, even teasing him about passing up opportunities.
DFS Responds:: Finney-Smith delivered a stellar performance against the Rockets, scoring 20 points on 6-of-11 shooting from three-point range.
DFS's Impact:: Since joining the Lakers via trade, Finney-Smith has provided essential tenacious defense, toughness, and increasingly confident outside shooting (38.6% 3PT with Lakers, 40.2% in March).
Team Effort Needed:: Doncic and LeBron James emphasized the need for the Lakers to maintain the defensive intensity and team play shown against Houston in every game down the stretch.
Why this matters:: Doncic's vocal support shows leadership beyond scoring and highlights the tactical need for reliable shooters around superstars to capitalize on defensive attention.
Dorian Finney-Smith's arrival in Los Angeles brought immediate defensive improvements, grit, and toughness. While impactful, his offensive assertiveness, particularly from deep, has been developing. Luka Doncic, his former Mavericks teammate, is playing a key role in building that confidence.
In the Lakers' recent 104-98 victory over the Houston Rockets, Finney-Smith showcased his potential, hitting six threes. Post-game, Doncic humorously shared his in-game dialogue with DFS: “No, I just told him today, if you don’t want to shoot, I’ll shoot... I think he could have shot more.”
Finney-Smith acknowledged the encouragement, stating, “It feels good when guys like him and LeBron [James] are telling me to shoot.” He admitted his tendency to make the extra pass but recognized the need to take good looks when defenses focus on the Lakers' stars.
This dynamic is crucial as the Lakers battle for playoff seeding. Consistent contributions from role players like Finney-Smith, especially efficient shooting, are vital for alleviating pressure on Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves. The team needs to replicate the defensive intensity and ball movement shown against the Rockets consistently. As Doncic put it, “We’ve got to play like this every game.” With the Western Conference standings tight, every game counts, and confident play from the entire roster is paramount.
Why is Doncic telling Finney-Smith to shoot more?
Star players like Doncic draw significant defensive attention, often leaving teammates like Finney-Smith open. Doncic recognizes DFS's shooting ability and wants him to capitalize confidently on these opportunities to boost the team's offense.
How has Finney-Smith performed since joining the Lakers?
He has made a positive impact, significantly bolstering the team's perimeter defense and toughness. Offensively, he's shown improvement, shooting 38.6% from three since the trade and hitting over 40% in March.
What does this mean for the Lakers' playoff chances?
Having reliable shooters like Finney-Smith step up makes the Lakers' offense more versatile and harder to defend. Consistent team effort, particularly on defense, coupled with contributions from role players, improves their chances for better playoff seeding and postseason success.
Leadership Styles:: Doncic's approach shows how star players can lead by empowering their teammates.
Role Player Importance:: The success of teams often hinges on the performance and confidence of key role players like Finney-Smith.
Seize Opportunities:: Finney-Smith's situation highlights the importance of being ready and willing to take shots when opportunities arise.
Crucial Stretch:: The Lakers are focused on maintaining intensity and chemistry as they head towards the playoffs.
How crucial will Dorian Finney-Smith's shooting be for the Lakers in the playoffs? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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Source 1: Luka Doncic says he's been asking Dorian Finney-Smith to shoot more (Yahoo Sports)
Source 2: Silver Screen and Roll
Source 3: Lakers Nation
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