The 2025 offseason is far from over, but the Los Angeles Lakers already have a problem on their hands. After bringing back Jaxson Hayes on a one-year deal, the Lakers have 15 players projected for their 2025-26 roster. One of those men, Shake Milton, has a key financial coming up on his deal.
Jovan Buha pointed out on Twitter/X, "The Jaxson Hayes signing brings the Lakers to 15 official roster players. ... Milton's $3M contract is non-guaranteed. The Lakers have until July 20 to decide on his deal."
It should be worth noting that this may not be the initial concern some perceive it to be. The Lakers, and any other team in the NBA, are allowed to carry more than 15 players on a roster during key parts of the offseason.
However, next year's group will need to take shape at some point. Right now, Milton's odds of being a part of that group do not look particularly high.
Lakers still need a considerable overhaul and upgrades this offseason
Perhaps the job security of Milton would be a lot higher if it were not for the fact that Rob Pelinka still has plenty of work to do with regard to patching up the holes on the roster. That non-guaranteed contract is a 'get out of jail free' card right now when it comes to clearing up space for new arrivals.
There should be some comfort for Milton in knowing that a trade, or two, could still clear up space on what projects to be the final unit for the Lakers. However, the exact framework of how those deals look could also hurt his chances as much as they help them.
The Lakers have certainly done the work to address the center spot. Bringing in DeAndre Ayton has given them their starter for 2025-26. Hayes could theoretically reassume the backup role as well. Albeit, most will still hope for additional help in the frontcourt.
Needing a boost to the wing defense remains a necessary upgrade as well, even after adding Adou Thiero in the 2025 NBA Draft. The Lakers starting lineup needs someone who can reliably cover the other team's best player on a night-to-night basis.
A backup point guard to lead the second unit still remains a point of focus too. Going into 2025-26 with Gabe Vincent filling that spot would be a disappointment.
Adding all of this up and looking at Milton's contract should make one thing abundantly clear. Whether it is via trade before his contract deadline, or an outright release, the 28-year-old is as good as gone.