Rob Pelinka Facing Backlash After Lakers’ Decision on Sunday

Rob Pelinka Facing Backlash After Lakers’ Decision on Sunday originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

After a first-round playoff exit this past season, the Los Angeles Lakers entered the offseason determined to address key issues on last year’s roster. The team sought to add size, toughness, and improve perimeter defense, while upgrading their bench—areas that repeatedly let them down during the postseason. With superstars Luka Doncic and LeBron James under contract for next season, the front office moved aggressively to put the right pieces around them.

On Saturday, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Marcus Smart is set to join the Lakers on a two-year, $11 million deal after finalizing a buyout with the Washington Wizards. Smart gives the Lakers a physical, high-IQ guard who can defend and handle secondary playmaking duties.

To make room for Smart, however, the Lakers needed to clear roster space. On Sunday, the team waived Shake Milton, whose $3 million salary for next season was non-guaranteed. Later that same day, Charania reported that the franchise waived guard Jordan Goodwin.

The 25-year-old earned consistent minutes under head coach JJ Redick late last season, appearing in 29 regular-season games and four playoff contests.

The Los Angeles Lakers have waived guard Jordan Goodwin, sources tell ESPN. Goodwin emerged as a key rotation piece for JJ Redick late last season, playing 29 games and four playoff contests. Goodwin and Shake Milton were released to clear space for arrival of Marcus Smart.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 21, 2025

While the Milton move was largely expected, the decision to release Goodwin drew strong criticism from Lakers fans who took to social media to call out GM Rob Pelinka:

“NOOOOOOO WHY PELINKA,” one fan wrote.

“The Lakers take 1 step forward then 2 steps back, absolutely ridiculous,” another fan added.

“Rob pelinka waived a defensive demon but kept alex len,” another fan posted.

“Pelinka has zero creativity when it comes to making deals,” a fan said.

“Pelinka just sucks at the little stuff… Pelinka really has no clue how to make an off-season trade huh,” another fan mentioned.

“How you finna waive one of your best players?” another fan questioned.

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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 21, 2025, where it first appeared.