1. Two Waivers to Free Salary
- Milton Waived: On July 20, the Lakers released forward Jared Milton, freeing roughly $750,000 in cap space.
- Goodwin Waived: The next day, guard Jordan Goodwin was cut, releasing an additional $900,000.
Together, these moves cleared more than $1.6 million, allowing Los Angeles to use their bi-annual exception for Smart’s contract.
2. Marcus Smart Signing Details
- Contract Terms: Smart agreed to a two-year, $11 million deal after reaching a buyout with the Washington Wizards.
- Salary-Cap Mechanics: His first-year salary is $5.1 million. The Lakers must remain below the second tax apron threshold (approximately $90.9 million under the first luxury-tax line) to deploy the bi-annual exception.
3. Defensive Upgrade
- Backcourt Defense: With Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves off the ball, Los Angeles needed a lockdown perimeter defender. Smart’s arrival bolsters their on-ball pressure and switchability.
- Additional Moves: The team is also exploring trades involving Jarred Vanderbilt and/or Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to create further roster flexibility and possibly acquire draft assets.
By strategically waiving two bench players and leveraging the bi-annual exception, the Lakers have reinforced their defensive identity around LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Marcus Smart is poised to anchor the perimeter defense and help Los Angeles contend in the Western Conference next season.
