Dorian Finney-Smith’s Fiery Comeback Plea
Dorian Finney-Smith, a sought-after addition for the Houston Rockets this offseason, is eager to make his mark. While the Rockets’ headline-grabbing acquisition was undoubtedly Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns—an impressive move orchestrated by General Manager Rafael Stone that cost five second-round picks, along with promising players Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks—the impact of Brooks’ departure from Houston has been felt profoundly this season.
Brooks’ Departure and Its Impact
Dillon Brooks, once labeled a selfish player in Memphis, emerged as a transformative figure during his six-year tenure with the Grizzlies. His desire for a more significant role in the offense led to friction within a team that, as it turned out, was grappling with deeper cultural issues. After his exit, Memphis faced turmoil, culminating in the firing of head coach Taylor Jenkins and a trade involving Desmond Bane. In contrast, Brooks has excelled with the Suns, showcasing his defensive prowess and offensive skill, currently averaging a career-best 21.5 points per game.
Finney-Smith’s Path to Houston
Finney-Smith, known for his defensive abilities and impressive seven-foot wingspan, has also made strides in his offensive game, achieving a career-high 41.1 percent shooting from beyond the arc while taking five attempts per game. However, his transition to the Rockets has not been seamless. A persistent lower extremity injury delayed his debut, compelling the team to prioritize his recovery. It took 28 games before Finney-Smith finally took the court for Houston.
Eager to Contribute
In his first few outings, Finney-Smith has seen limited action, averaging just 15 minutes per game over three contests, with a maximum of 16 minutes in a single game. Yet, his enthusiasm for the game remains undiminished. After a recent practice, he expressed his readiness to break free from the constraints of his playing time. “I know we’ve got a bunch of games coming up. Hopefully soon. So we’ll see,” he remarked, highlighting his eagerness to contribute more significantly.
Impressed by Teammates
Finney-Smith also took a moment to commend the development of Rockets reserve guard Reed Sheppard, noting, “Since I’ve been here, he’s been shooting the cover off it. I’m just happy and proud of his growth. He’s been solid so far.” The 6-foot-7 wing is focused on adding value wherever possible, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to showcase his skills in extended minutes.
As the Rockets navigate their season, Finney-Smith is poised to become a vital asset, ready to unleash his potential when called upon.
