Let’s get into this trade drama about the Los Angeles Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka. So apparently, he’s been accused of lying about Dorian Finney-Smith‘s knee during free agent negotiations. Like, seriously? That’s some shady stuff right there.
Imagine trying to devalue a player by spreading lies about his health – not cool, Rob. It’s like playing dirty just to get a better deal. But hey, this is the NBA, where things can get pretty intense behind the scenes.
Lakers insider Anthony Irwin claimed on his The Lakers Lounge podcast that Los Angeles general manager Rob Pelinka took unusual steps to devalue wing Dorian Finney‑Smith during free agency negotiations.
Irwin said, “The word out there is that Rob Pelinka was going out there and talking to teams about Dorian’s knee to try to tank Dorian’s free agency value and the offers that could potentially come in.” He added, “Word is that got back to Dorian and his camp.”
Irwin then clarified on X, saying that the injury he referenced was actually an ankle issue, not a knee issue, explaining, “he misspoke.”
Finney‑Smith did indeed have left ankle surgery earlier this month.
If Irwin’s claim was true, it obviously wouldn’t be a great look for the Lakers because Pelinka’s reported efforts to warn other teams of Dorian’s health would not have had their desired affect.
Additionally, it didn’t work as Finney‑Smith opted out of his $15.4 million Lakers player option and landed the aforementioned lucrative four-year pact in Houston.
We’ll have to see how this wild accusation unfolds, but one thing’s for sure – it’s definitely not a good look for the Lakers or Rob Pelinka. Let’s hope they can sort this mess out and move forward.
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