The Los Angeles Lakers are pushing ahead with their roster overhaul: Shake Milton has to go to make way for Marcus Smart. Another piece of the puzzle on the road to more defense, but the next decision is already looming.
It had been rumored, and now it’s official: The Los Angeles Lakers have released guard Shake Milton. His $3 million contract for the 2025-26 season would have been guaranteed today, Sunday. The move creates important cap space for the Lakers, as the signing of Marcus Smart is imminent.
According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, Smart will sign a two-year, $11 million contract with the Lakers after his buyout from the Washington Wizards. The deal will be financed through the bi-annual exception, but L.A. must remain under the luxury tax threshold.
Shake Milton had only arrived from Brooklyn via trade at the end of 2024, but hardly played a role for the Lakers. In 30 appearances, the 28-year-old averaged 3.9 points on poor shooting percentages (29.4% from three). Head coach JJ Redick hardly used him. The dismissal is therefore logical.
Cap situation remains tense
Despite Milton’s release, the Lakers are only just under $3.9 million below the “first apron” according to ESPN cap expert Bobby Marks. Smart earns $5.1 million, so at least one more deal must follow.
The focus is on Jordan Goodwin: The young guard has been given a club option worth $2.3 million, but only $25,000 is guaranteed so far. If he fails to impress, he could be the next to go.
