Image Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Lakers Waive Shake Milton For Marcus Smart in Backcourt Shift

Los Angeles Lakers have waived Shake Milton ahead of the 2025–26 season

Image Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Lakers have decided to waive Shake Milton’s contract. He is now in free agency. The point guard was guaranteed to receive $3 million in the next season, but the Lakers’ front office decided to save that as they look to further add players, especially in the front court.

Milton had only recently arrived in Los Angeles, but now finds himself waived just months after the trade. He joined the Lakers in December last year, involving a trade deal of D’Angelo Russell with the Brooklyn Nets. The 28-year-old played 30 games in LA and averaged 11.5 minutes per game.

The Los Angeles Lakers have waived guard Jordan Goodwin, sources tell ESPN. Goodwin emerged as a key rotation piece for JJ Redick late last season, playing 29 games and four playoff contests. Goodwin and Shake Milton were released to clear space for arrival of Marcus Smart.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 21, 2025

He averaged 3.9 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, shooting an efficient 43.3% from the field during his brief Lakers stint. Shake Milton’s most notable efforts came in January against the Washington Wizards, when he scored 21 points on 7-of-8 shooting. This was a massive blowout win for the Lakers.

Milton Out, Smart Signs With Lakers

According to ESPN, Shake Milton was waved off his Lakers’ contract to pave the way for Marcus Smart. The front office wanted to maintain the salary cap and roster seats, and hence made a decision to move on from Milton for Smart.

Marcus Smart, recently waived by the Washington Wizards, has now signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. However, there are concerns with the deal, as the 31-year-old has been barely fit in the past few seasons. Since the 2022-23 season, Marcus Smart has never played more than 20 games in a season.

Availability is the best ability and Smart will have to ensure his consistent presence for the Lakers. Luka Doncic reportedly played a key role in Smart’s arrival, persuading both the Lakers’ front office and the veteran guard to finalize the move to Los Angeles.

Doncic reached out to his counterpart after learning about the waiver with the Wizards. He convinced Marcus Smart to join him in California. Smart brings added depth to the backcourt and is especially valued for his tenacious defense and leadership qualities.