The Los Angeles Lakers have released veteran guard Shake Milton in a move to free up salary cap space for the signing of Marcus Smart, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Milton was set to earn $3 million for the 2025–26 season, a contract that would soon become fully guaranteed. The Lakers acted before the deadline to avoid that financial commitment.
Milton arrived in Los Angeles midway through last season as part of the same trade that brought Dorian Finney-Smith from the Brooklyn Nets. While Finney-Smith contributed significantly, Milton struggled to establish himself, averaging just 3.9 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 11.5 minutes per game over 30 appearances.
With a surplus of guards and limited roster flexibility, the Lakers made the decision to waive Milton in preparation for acquiring Marcus Smart.
Smart is expected to join the Lakers on a two-year, $11 million contract after a buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards. The deal includes a player option for the second year, giving Smart some control over his future. Reports indicate that Luka Doncic played an active role in recruiting Smart to Los Angeles.
Smart brings an impressive defensive pedigree to the team, including three All-Defensive First Team selections and the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year award. His leadership, toughness, and perimeter defense are seen as valuable assets for a team with championship aspirations.
With Smart on board, Head Coach JJ Redick gains a strong defensive presence alongside Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves. However, the Lakers might still need to make additional financial moves—possibly involving Jordan Goodwin’s lightly guaranteed contract or a minor trade—to fully finalize Smart’s contract.
Ultimately, Smart chose the Lakers over other interested playoff contenders like the Suns and Bucks, motivated by the organization’s vision and the opportunity to play alongside stars like Doncic.
The swap—Milton out, Smart in—marks a quiet but potentially impactful upgrade for the Lakers as they gear up for a deep playoff run.
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