Perhaps the claims that incoming Lakers guard Marcus Smart has declined, especially on defense, have been greatly exaggerated.

Earlier Sunday, Los Angeles waived 28-year-old guard Shake Milton, who spent 30 games with the Lakers in 2024–25 after being acquired from the Nets. Milton's $3 million salary was set to become guaranteed before the move, per ESPN's Shams Charania.

Veteran guard Marcus Smart will sign with the Los Angeles Lakers after receiving a contract buyout from the Washington Wizards, according to a person with knowledge of the deal.

The Wizards traded for Smart last season, and he, by all accounts, provided a positive example to the team’s younger players.

Redick has worn many hats over the past five years: NBA player, basketball analyst, media personality and now NBA head coach. In a nearly five-year-old clip from Redick’s former podcast, The Old Man and the Three, he praised Smart’s value, especially his energy and defensive impact.

Why Zach Lowe is wondering if the Lakers were better off with their young prospect instead of signing veteran Marcus Smart.

In a move first reported by ESPN's Shams Charania on Sunday, Los Angeles waived the guard in an effort to clear financial space to add Marcus Smart. Milton's $3 million contract for the 2025-26 campaign was set to become fully guaranteed on Sunday had the Purple and Gold not moved on from him.