Dorian Finney-Smith Undergoes Ankle Surgery, Plus... a Lonzo Ball-Lakers Return?

One of the quiet underperformances of the playoffs for the Lakers was forward Dorian Finney-Smith, who essentially disappeared in five against the Timberwolves. One reason? He wasn't healthy, something confirmed on Thursday when it was reported that DFS underwent surgery to clean up a problematic left ankle. It's been bugging him for a while—he was banged up when the Lakers acquired him from Brooklyn—and the Lakers had to do some maintenance work just to get him through the season. 

Finney-Smith has a $15 million player option he can pick up for next season, something that shouldn't be impacted much by the news, since he's expected to be ready for training camp. But if he chooses to opt out, likely it's with the idea of re-signing with LA. 

But like a lot of players in the NBA's middle class, the 32-year old veteran needs to try and read how the new CBA will impact the market... which ain't easy. 

Meanwhile, one of the names that keeps popping up as a potential addition for the Lakers this summer is old friend Lonzo Ball, who returned to the court after 2-plus seasons on the sidelines. Ball played well (all things considered) with the Bulls, albeit with some restrictions on playing time. In theory, his defensive capabilities and length, along with secondary playmaking and (if he regains some form from before he was hurt) better-than-you-remember floor spacing would be beneficial. 

But what would you reasonably give up for him? Can't give up a first. Hard to give up Dalton Knecht. Could the Lakers put a deal together working one-on-one with the Bulls? Or would it take something bigger? 

 

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

 

SEGMENT 1: DFS gets ankle surgery. 

 

SEGMENT 2: How does this impact the offseason? 

 

SEGMENT 3: Lonzo returns? 

 

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