Lakers Waive Goodwin and Milton: What’s GM Rob Pelinka’s Next Move?

By Edcel Panganiban July 24, 2025 12:25

The Los Angeles Lakers have cleared significant salary cap space by waiving guards Shake Milton and Jordan Goodwin, a strategic move aimed at facilitating the imminent arrival of veteran guard Marcus Smart. This maneuver signals General Manager Rob Pelinka's aggressive approach to bolstering the roster for a deeper playoff push in the competitive Western Conference.

The decision to waive Milton and Goodwin came on Sunday, July 20, just ahead of Milton's $3 million contract for the 2025-26 season becoming fully guaranteed . By releasing Milton, the Lakers saved that $3 million in salary cap space . Jordan Goodwin was also waived shortly after . These actions were necessary to create the financial room needed to sign Marcus Smart, who reportedly agreed to a two-year, $11 million deal with the Lakers after securing a contract buyout with the Washington Wizards .

Shake Milton, a seven-year NBA veteran, struggled to find a consistent role with the Lakers after being acquired in the trade that sent D'Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets . He averaged 3.9 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 30 games for Los Angeles last season, shooting 43.3% from the field and 29.4% from three-point range . Milton had been a more productive rotation player during his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, where he averaged 9.3 points and 2.7 assists .

Jordan Goodwin, 26, showed glimpses of potential in his 29 appearances with the Lakers, averaging 5.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists, with a 38.2% shooting clip from beyond the arc . Goodwin, who consistently displayed high effort, was ineligible for a two-way contract due to his four years of NBA service, which may make his search for a new team more challenging . Despite his efforts, the Lakers opted for the financial flexibility and the veteran presence of Smart .

The addition of Marcus Smart is a significant upgrade for the Lakers, especially on the defensive end. Smart was the 2021-22 NBA Defensive Player of the Year and has three All-Defensive selections . His extensive playoff experience, including 108 playoff games and a trip to the 2022 NBA Finals with the Boston Celtics, is expected to provide crucial leadership and toughness . ESPN's Bobby Marks referred to the waiving of Milton as "step one of two" for the Lakers, bringing them within $3.9 million of the first apron of the luxury tax .

What’s GM Rob Pelinka’s Next Move?

With the immediate financial hurdles cleared for Smart's signing, the focus now shifts to Pelinka's subsequent moves to further optimize the roster. The Lakers currently stand $3.9 million below the first apron, providing some flexibility .

Finalizing Smart's Contract: The immediate priority is officially signing Marcus Smart once he clears waivers . This move will solidify a key piece in their backcourt rotation and enhance their defensive identity.
Evaluating Remaining Roster Needs: Pelinka will likely assess any remaining roster gaps, particularly for additional shooting, size, or veteran leadership on minimum deals. The team may look to fill out the remaining spots with players willing to accept smaller roles for a chance at a championship.
Potential Trade Opportunities: While the current moves are about cap space, Pelinka is known for his aggressive pursuit of impact players. If another opportunity arises to improve the roster via trade without significantly impacting their financial flexibility, the Lakers could explore it.
Veteran Minimum Additions: With limited cap space, the Lakers will be attractive to veteran players seeking a championship ring. They will likely target experienced players who can contribute in specific roles off the bench.

The waivers of Milton and Goodwin are clear signals of the Lakers' commitment to contending. By bringing in a proven defender and playoff performer like Marcus Smart, Rob Pelinka is demonstrating his intent to build a team capable of competing at the highest level in the Western Conference.