The Detroit Pistons have agreed to a contract buyout with veteran guard Shake Milton, paving the way for him to hit the free agency market once again.
Milton, who joined the Pistons in a trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves before the trade deadline, will now be available for teams seeking playoff reinforcements. The Pistons acquired Milton, along with Troy Brown Jr. and a future second-round pick, in exchange for Monte Morris on February 7.
Detroit Pistons guard Shake Milton has agreed on a contract buyout, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Multiple postseason contenders are expected to pursue Milton in free agency. pic.twitter.com/IAaDyXNvPD
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 2, 2024
The 25-year-old guard, formerly with the Philadelphia 76ers, embarked on a new chapter in his career during the 2023 offseason when he secured a two-year deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Despite appearing in 38 games with the Timberwolves, Milton faced challenges, averaging 13 minutes on the court and contributing five points and one assist per game. His three-point shooting struggled, with only a 26 percent success rate.
Upon his move to the Pistons, Milton’s role was limited, averaging 15 minutes in his first four games with the team. However, he faced three consecutive Did Not Play (DNP) designations before the Pistons’ recent matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Following the Pistons’ ten-point loss to the Cavaliers, reports surfaced that Milton and the organization had mutually agreed to part ways, leading to the contract buyout.
During his postseason runs with the Sixers, Milton showcased his capabilities in 34 playoff games, including four starts. He averaged 13 minutes on the court, providing five points and one assist per game, with an impressive career 43 percent shooting from beyond the arc in the playoffs.
