The Los Angeles Lakers have waived guard Shake Milton, whose $3 million contract becomes fully guaranteed today, to clear space for signing Marcus Smart, according to Shams Charania.
The Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most storied franchises in NBA history, are constantly evolving their roster to maximize their chances of winning another championship. Recent reports confirm that the Lakers have waived guard Shake Milton, whose $3 million contract was set to become fully guaranteed, in a strategic move to free up salary cap space for the signing of Marcus Smart, according to Shams Charania. This decision encapsulates the Lakers’ ongoing efforts to optimize their roster, balance financial flexibility, and position themselves as strong contenders in the upcoming season.
This analysis will examine the context and implications of this move, including the strategic rationale behind waiving Milton, the significance of acquiring Marcus Smart, the financial considerations involved, and how this move fits into the Lakers’ broader team-building philosophy. We will also explore how this move reflects current trends in NBA roster management and what it signals about the Lakers’ championship ambitions.
Background: Shake Milton and His Role
Shake Milton, born in 1996, is a versatile guard known for his scoring ability, shooting, and playmaking. Drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018, Milton has developed as a valuable role player capable of contributing off the bench. His skill set includes perimeter shooting, ball-handling, and the ability to run the offense when needed, making him a flexible option for teams seeking depth at guard.
Milton signed with the Lakers for the 2023-2024 season, but his role was limited. His contract, valued at approximately $3 million, was set to become fully guaranteed today. Given the Lakers’ roster composition and strategic priorities, the team decided to waive him, effectively ending his stint with the franchise. The move is primarily driven by salary cap considerations and roster flexibility needs.
The Strategic Rationale Behind Waiving Shake Milton
1. Salary Cap Management and Financial Flexibility
One of the primary reasons NBA teams waive players is to manage the salary cap effectively. Milton’s $3 million contract, which was scheduled to become fully guaranteed, represents a significant but manageable cap hit. By waiving him before the guarantee date, the Lakers can avoid the full financial obligation, thereby freeing up space for other moves.
In the NBA, teams often strategize around guaranteed contracts, using waivers to reduce salary commitments and maintain flexibility to sign impactful players or accommodate trades. For the Lakers, clearing this space is essential, especially as they pursue marquee acquisitions like Marcus Smart.
2. Acquiring Marcus Smart: A Defensive and Leadership Upgrade
Marcus Smart, a veteran guard known for his tenacious defense, basketball IQ, and leadership qualities, is considered one of the top defensive players in the league. His addition to the Lakers is viewed as a move to bolster the team’s perimeter defense, add toughness, and bring a championship-winning mindset.
Smart’s versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, facilitate offense, and serve as a vocal leader on and off the court. His presence is expected to complement the Lakers’ existing core, particularly stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, by providing defensive stability and gritty playmaking.
3. Roster Flexibility and Future Planning
Waiving Milton also gives the Lakers flexibility to sign Smart without exceeding salary cap limits. It signals a calculated move to prioritize defensive prowess and veteran leadership, aligning with the team’s goal of building a championship contender.
Additionally, this move reflects the Lakers’ broader approach of balancing star power with role players who fit their championship blueprint. By creating space now, they position themselves to be more aggressive in the trade market or free agency.
Financial Implications
1. Contract Details and Guarantee Timing
Milton’s contract was set to become fully guaranteed today, making him an official part of the Lakers’ salary obligations. Waiving him before this date means the team avoids the full guarantee, thereby reducing salary cap commitments.
2. Cap Space and Future Flexibility
The Lakers’ salary cap situation is crucial in their pursuit of high-impact players. By waiving Milton, they free up approximately $3 million in cap space that can be allocated toward signing Marcus Smart or other key contributors.
3. Impact on Player and Franchise
For Milton, being waived means an uncertain future—he will seek opportunities elsewhere, potentially signing with another team or being claimed via waivers if he clears unclaimed. For the Lakers, this move is a strategic investment in future success, balancing short-term flexibility with long-term championship goals.
Significance of Acquiring Marcus Smart
1. Defensive Excellence and Leadership
Smart’s reputation as one of the league’s premier defenders is well-established. His aggressive style, high basketball IQ, and leadership qualities make him an ideal fit for the Lakers’ culture. His ability to guard multiple positions and generate turnovers will be invaluable in postseason scenarios.
2. Playmaking and Ball Movement
Beyond defense, Smart is a capable playmaker who can facilitate offense and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. His decision-making and passing skills will help alleviate some of the ball-handling and distribution responsibilities from stars like LeBron James.
3. Championship Pedigree
Having won an NBA title with the Boston Celtics, Smart brings a winning mentality and experience in high-pressure situations. His presence is expected to elevate the team’s intensity and focus.
4. Complementing the Lakers’ Core
Smart’s defensive tenacity and leadership are complementary to the Lakers’ existing roster, which includes stars and versatile role players. His addition aims to make the team more cohesive, disciplined, and resilient.
Broader NBA Trends and Roster Management Strategies
The Lakers’ move reflects several prevailing trends in NBA roster management:
1. Flexibility and Salary Cap Maneuvering
Teams increasingly prioritize cap flexibility to remain competitive in a league with rising player salaries. Waivers, short-term contracts, and strategic cuts are tools used to maintain agility.
2. Prioritizing Defense and Leadership
Modern NBA championships often hinge on defensive excellence and veteran leadership. Teams like the Lakers seek players who can contribute on both ends and elevate team culture.
3. Balancing Star Power with Role Players
Successful teams combine high-caliber stars with role players who fit specific needs. The Lakers’ focus on acquiring Smart emphasizes this balanced approach.
4. Strategic Use of the Waiver System
Teams utilize waivers not only to cut costs but also to send signals about their priorities and future plans. Clearing Milton’s salary to sign a player like Smart demonstrates proactive roster shaping.
Future Outlook: What This Move Means for the Lakers
1. Championship Aspirations
The Lakers’ move to waive Milton and pursue Smart underscores their commitment to returning to championship contention. Smart’s defensive prowess and leadership are seen as critical ingredients for playoff success.
2. Roster Composition
This move signals a focus on defense, toughness, and veteran experience. The Lakers are likely to add more role players and shooters to complement their stars, creating a balanced, versatile lineup.
3. Remaining Flexibility
By managing their cap space carefully, the Lakers keep open the possibility of additional trades, signings, or extensions, maintaining the flexibility needed in a competitive league.
4. Player Development and Chemistry
While the move improves immediate team quality, it also emphasizes the importance of team chemistry. Smart’s leadership can help integrate younger players and foster a winning culture.
The Lakers’ decision to waive Shake Milton, whose $3 million contract was set to become fully guaranteed, in order to sign Marcus Smart, is a strategic maneuver rooted in financial management, team-building philosophy, and championship aspirations. It exemplifies the Lakers’ commitment to assembling a roster that combines star talent with defensive intensity, veteran leadership, and flexibility.
This move highlights the importance of cap management in today’s NBA, where teams must make difficult decisions to create space for impact players. By prioritizing Smart’s defensive skills and leadership, the Lakers aim to strengthen their core and increase their chances of hoisting another Larry O’Brien Trophy.
As the offseason progresses, this move positions the Lakers as a more formidable, disciplined, and cohesive unit, ready to contend for top honors. The strategic waiver of Milton and acquisition of Smart reflect a broader trend in league management—one that emphasizes flexibility, targeted talent acquisition, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
