Lakers make major roster change as room made for new arrival
With Marcus Smart set to join the Los Angeles Lakers, the team has reshaped its roster to accommodate the veteran.
The Los Angeles Lakers are making moves ahead of the upcoming NBA season, with veteran guard Marcus Smart set to join the team. According to Shams Charania, Smart has agreed to a contract buyout with the Washington Wizards and will sign a two-year, $11 million deal with the Lakers once he clears waivers.
Despite the addition, the Lakers have made it clear that their roster remains a work in progress as they aim to return to playoff contention.
A key factor in Smart’s decision to head to L.A. was reportedly Luka Doncic. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Slovenian star personally reached out to Smart to help persuade him to join the Lakers.
Milton waived to make room
To make space for Smart, the Lakers have reportedly waived guard Shake Milton. Had Milton remained on the roster past today, his $3 million salary would have become fully guaranteed. The move signals the Lakers’ intent to reshape their backcourt depth heading into training camp.
Milton the latest Laker to leave
Milton averaged 5.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game last season, shooting 45.3% from the field and 35.8% from beyond the arc in 14.7 minutes per contest.
The 28-year-old’s departure follows that of forward Dorian Finney-Smith, who declined his $15.4 million player option with the Lakers and signed with the Houston Rockets.
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