NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers reportedly looking to waive $9,162,406 guard to accommodate Marcus Smart
The
Los Angeles Lakers
are exploring another major roster shake-up this offseason. According to ESPN's Shams Charania, the franchise is planning to waive guard
Shake Milton
—a move not yet finalized—to create space for the incoming Marcus Smart.
The decision underlines the front office's commitment to revamping the roster with proven veterans and tougher defenders following another disappointing postseason exit.
Shake Milton on the Way Out?
Shake Milton, 27, had a brief and quiet stint in Los Angeles after arriving midway through the 2024-25 season. Splitting his time between the
Brooklyn Nets
and the
Los Angeles Lakers
, he averaged 5.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game while shooting 45.3% from the floor and 35.8% from beyond the arc.
While those numbers are solid for a bench player, this decision is more about salary cap logistics than performance.
Shake Milton's $3 million salary for the 2025-26 season would have become fully guaranteed after July 20, which added urgency to the Los Angeles Lakers' timetable. With other moves in the pipeline, including the expected addition of Marcus Smart, LA was unwilling to carry Milton's salary past that date.
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While he hasn't officially been waived, league insiders suggest the writing is on the wall.
Marcus Smart Brings Edge and Experience
The anticipated arrival of Marcus Smart, who agreed to a buyout with the
Washington Wizards
, is the key reason behind Shake Milton's potential exit. Smart is expected to join the Los Angeles Lakers on a two-year, $11 million contract, bringing elite perimeter defense, grit, and playoff-tested leadership to a team that's struggled with consistency on that end.
Marcus Smart's recent journey has been riddled with setbacks. After being traded from Boston to Memphis, he played just 26 games over two injury-plagued seasons before a brief stint in Washington. Despite those challenges, the Lakers are banking on his ability to bounce back and play a significant role—especially in a locker room that needs more vocal leadership.
Roster and Cap Implications Still in Play
Even with the Smart deal on the table, the Los Angeles Lakers aren't in the clear just yet.
Finalizing the move depends on creating the necessary cap flexibility, as the team hovers near the hard cap. Waiving Shake Milton is just the first step. The Lakers may also need to part ways with another non-guaranteed contract or engineer a small trade to remain compliant with the league's tight financial constraints.
This is the new reality under the NBA's updated Collective Bargaining Agreement—every dollar and roster spot matters.
The Lakers' front office, led by Rob Pelinka, is navigating this chessboard carefully, aiming to load the roster with playoff-ready contributors without overcommitting financially.
Mixed Fan Reaction and What's Next for Shake Milton
Los Angeles Lakers fans have largely welcomed the idea of bringing in Marcus Smart, viewing it as an upgrade over Milton. His reputation as a defensive stopper and emotional leader fits what the team lacked last season. That said, there's still respect for Milton's professionalism, and many believe he could find a new home soon—potentially with a contender in need of backcourt depth, such as the Bucks, Timberwolves, or Mavericks.
This potential roster move reflects LA's bigger vision: prioritizing veterans who can contribute immediately. If Smart stays healthy and returns to his All-Defensive form, the Lakers may have added a crucial piece to support LeBron James and Anthony Davis. However, the risk remains high given Marcus Smart's recent injury history and the Los Angeles Lakers' limited flexibility.
Also read:
NBA Trade News: Los Angeles Lakers Sign Marcus Smart with a $11 Million Deal; High-Stakes Move for Defensive Reinforcement
Whether or not the gamble pays off, one thing's certain—the Lakers are not standing still. As training camp approaches, expect more moves, more drama, and more headlines from Hollywood's most scrutinized franchise.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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