SHOCKING LAKERS MOVE: Dumping Key Players to Snag Marcus Smart – Is This a Championship Power Play or Desperate Gamble
Lakers Reshape Backcourt in Major Defensive Upgrade
The Los Angeles Lakers have made a series of calculated roster decisions, waiving guards Jordan Goodwin and Shake Milton to create the necessary cap flexibility to sign former NBA Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart, league sources confirmed Monday.
The move signals the Lakers’ aggressive approach to bolstering their perimeter defense as they prepare for another championship push. Smart, who was recently bought out by the Washington Wizards, is expected to sign a two-year deal with Los Angeles, though exact financial terms remain undisclosed.
Breaking Down the Roster Shakeup
Departures: Goodwin and Milton Cut Loose
- Jordan Goodwin, 25, appeared in 29 regular-season games and four playoff contests for the Lakers last season, providing energy and defensive hustle off the bench.
- Shake Milton, 27, a veteran combo guard, was acquired this offseason but became a cap casualty before playing a single game for the franchise.
Both players were on non-guaranteed deals, making them logical sacrifices for a team prioritizing immediate contention.
The New Addition: Marcus Smart Brings Elite Defense
Smart, 30, is a three-time All-Defensive Team selection and the 2021-22 DPOY. Known for his relentless on-ball pressure, playmaking, and leadership, he fills a critical need for a Lakers team that ranked middle of the pack in defensive rating last season.
- Career averages: 10.4 PPG, 4.6 APG, 3.5 RPG, 1.6 SPG
- Playoff experience: 86 games, including a 2022 NBA Finals run with Boston
- Shooting improvements: 36% from three over the past two seasons
Inside the Lakers’ Strategy
1. Cap Mechanics: How They Made It Work
- By waiving Goodwin and Milton, the Lakers cleared just enough space to offer Smart a competitive deal while staying under the luxury tax apron.
- Smart’s contract is expected to be a two-year deal with a player option, giving both sides flexibility.
2. Luka Dončić’s Influence?
Sources indicate that Luka Dončić, who played with Smart briefly in Dallas before his trade to Washington, personally advocated for the Lakers to pursue him. The Slovenian superstar’s endorsement may have accelerated negotiations.
3. Defensive Identity Shift
With Smart, the Lakers now feature:
- Elite perimeter stoppers: Smart, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Cam Reddish
- Versatile switchability: A must in today’s NBA playoff landscape
- Veteran toughness: Smart’s playoff pedigree adds grit to a team with title aspirations