Former Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart is reportedly set to sign a two-year, $11 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers following a buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards. This move fuels speculation about rising tensions, especially considering Smart’s history with the Celtics and his potential motivation to face his former team.
Trade History and Background
Smart was traded by the Celtics at the end of the 2022-23 season in a three-team deal involving the Wizards and Memphis Grizzlies. He was sent to Memphis while Boston acquired Kristaps Porzingis from Washington, who contributed to the Celtics’ 2024 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA Finals victory. Later in the season, Smart was traded from Memphis to the Wizards, who were focusing on rebuilding and saw little reason to keep the experienced guard.
Old Comments Suggest Motivation Against Boston
Despite reports connecting the Celtics to Smart, they did not emerge as a finalist to re-sign him. Instead, the Lakers secured Smart’s services, which has reignited rivalry discussions. Fans recall Smart’s remarks upon joining Memphis that hinted at feeling undervalued by his previous team.
You always want to be where you’re wanted, and (one) team’s trash is another team’s gold. So I’m glad to be here,
Smart said to Jared Weiss of The Athletic following his trade to the Grizzlies in 2023.
I’m glad to be on an organization that wants me and sees me (have) great value. So I’m ecstatic and I’m ready to get going.
—Marcus Smart, NBA Guard
Celtics’ Current Roster Strategy and Impact
Boston remains quiet about their pursuit of Smart, reportedly prioritizing moves to reduce salary and stay under the league’s new salary cap threshold. With limited trade options available, the Celtics appear cautious in making any rushed transactions. Missing out on obtaining Smart could prove costly as he prepares to play a significant role for the Lakers—one of Boston’s chief rivals.
Potential Consequences of Smart’s Lakers Signing
Smart’s decision to join the Lakers might add intensity to one of the NBA’s most heated rivalries. His knowledge of and connection to the Celtics could provide an edge for the Lakers in upcoming matchups. If motivated by past grievances, Smart may seek to make a strong impact opposite his former teammates, potentially influencing the league’s rivalry dynamics moving forward.