Marcus Smart, newly signed by the LA Lakers after being bought out by the Washington Wizards, is already anticipating a difficult welcome when he returns to Boston’s TD Garden next season. Although Smart has yet to play a game for the Lakers, the former Boston Celtic expects a strong negative reaction from fans due to the long-standing rivalry between the Celtics and Lakers.
At his introductory press conference on Tuesday, Smart admitted he is ready for boos and hostility, understanding the passion of the Boston crowd and what his move means to them.
“I can try to anticipate it,” Smart said. “I have no idea, but I can definitely say that I’m expecting a lot of boos. I’m expecting a lot of hate, and it’s okay. I understand it.”
—Marcus Smart, NBA player
Smart’s decade-long Boston career shaped by grit and loyalty
Marcus Smart’s professional journey began in 2014, when the Boston Celtics selected him seventh overall in the NBA Draft. Over nine years, Smart became one of Boston’s most beloved players, known for his relentless hustle and fierce defense. His dedication consistently energized fans at TD Garden, firmly establishing him as a key figure in the team’s identity.
Smart’s standout moment in Boston came in 2022 when he received the Defensive Player of the Year award — a rare honor for a guard, as he became the first since Gary Payton to earn it.
However, in 2023, the Celtics traded Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies as part of a multi-team deal involving Kristaps Porzingis and the Washington Wizards. When Smart visited Boston as a Grizzlies player in February 2024, the Celtics fans acknowledged his contributions with a video tribute and a warm ovation.
Following his time with Memphis, Smart was traded to Washington, where he played just 15 games before being waived earlier this year.
How Luka Doncic influenced Smart’s decision to join the Lakers
Smart credited his decision to sign with the Lakers to the persuasion of Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic. During free agency, Doncic reached out personally to Smart, sharing his vision and the role Smart could play in shaping a promising Lakers team.
“When you get a guy like Luka calling, referencing, checking on you, trying to see where you’re at to see if you want to come and join something special that he’s trying to cook up over here… For him to say that he can really use my help, that meant a lot,” Smart explained at his press event.
—Marcus Smart, NBA player
At 31, Smart remains motivated to contribute at a high level, though his availability has been limited by injuries over the last two seasons, restricting him to just 54 games. Staying healthy will be essential for his impact with the Lakers moving forward.
Looking ahead to the significance of Smart’s return to Boston
Marcus Smart’s return to TD Garden as a member of the Lakers will mark a notable moment for fans who witnessed his years of dedication in Boston. The anticipated boos reflect the intense Celtics-Lakers rivalry, as well as the passion of Boston’s supporters who valued Smart’s commitment.
For Smart, this game will be both a challenge and an opportunity to demonstrate his professionalism and resilience. His journey through multiple franchises before landing in Los Angeles underscores his determination to continue competing at a high level despite setbacks.
As the new NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on how Smart adapts to his new role with the Lakers and how the Boston crowd reacts when a once-fan favorite returns as an opponent.