Los Angeles Lakers Cut 7-Year NBA Vet to Clear Room for Major Addition

Published: Monday, July 21, 2025 at 3:03 am

Lakers Release Shake Milton to Pave Way for Marcus Smart Signing

The Los Angeles Lakers have waived guard Shake Milton, clearing the way for the anticipated signing of veteran guard Marcus Smart. The move, announced Saturday, ends Milton's brief stint with the team after he was acquired in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets on December 29.

Milton, 27, averaged 3.9 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 11.5 minutes per game during his 30 appearances for the Lakers in the 2024-25 season. His contract for the following season, valued at $3 million, would have become fully guaranteed if he remained on the roster beyond July 20. The Lakers are also planning to waive Jordan Goodwin to remain under the NBA's first luxury tax apron.

Across the entire 2024-25 season, Milton played in 57 games for both the Nets and Lakers, averaging 5.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. He shot 45.3% from the field and 35.8% from three-point range.

Milton was originally drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 2018 and traded to the Philadelphia 76ers. Over his seven-season NBA career, he has played in 359 games, with 47 starts. His career averages are 8.1 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 18.7 minutes per game. He has played for six teams: the Philadelphia 76ers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets, and Lakers.

During his time with the 76ers, Milton tied the NBA record for most consecutive made three-pointers across a three-game span. He also scored a career-high 39 points against the Clippers and had a personal-best 16 assists in a game against the Hawks.

Milton is now an unrestricted free agent and is eligible to sign with any team.

BNN's Perspective:

This move signals the Lakers' commitment to bolstering their roster with experienced talent. While Milton's departure may disappoint some, the addition of a player like Marcus Smart could significantly improve the team's competitiveness. It's a calculated risk, prioritizing immediate gains over potential future development.

Keywords: Los Angeles Lakers, Shake Milton, Marcus Smart, NBA, waivers, free agency, basketball, trade, roster, guard, points, rebounds, assists, contract, Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets, Dallas Mavericks, unrestricted free agent, NBA Draft

Full Story