TITLE: Marcus Smart Reflects on Rare Experience Wearing Both Lakers and Celtics Jerseys
SLUG: marcus-smart-on-playing-for-lakers-and-celtics
CONTENT:
Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart is now part of a small group of players who have appeared for both sides of the NBA’s most celebrated rivalry, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics.
Speaking with NBA media ahead of Sunday Night Basketball on Feb. 22, 2026, Smart reacted to learning that only 42 players have represented both franchises. “It’s 42? That I am surprised at,” the veteran said in a televised segment that quizzed him on the exclusive list.
From Boston cornerstone to Los Angeles contributor
Drafted by Boston, Smart spent nine seasons with the Celtics before being dealt to the Memphis Grizzlies in a 2024 three-team trade that sent Kristaps Porziņģis to Boston. Injuries hampered his lone year in Memphis, leading the 32-year-old to sign with the Lakers last offseason in an effort to reestablish his value and pursue another title run. Through February, he is playing his best basketball in years.
Return to the rivalry
Sunday’s contest marks the second meeting between the clubs this season. Smart missed the first matchup in Boston on Dec. 5, a game the Lakers lost decisively after resting several starters. With Los Angeles entering the rematch at full strength, Smart will face his former teammates for the first time since leaving the Celtics.
The Lakers own 17 championships, one fewer than Boston. If Smart helps deliver a title to Los Angeles, the franchises would be tied again at 18 apiece.
Reunion with Luke Kennard
The Lakers made only one move at the trade deadline, acquiring sharpshooter Luke Kennard. Kennard previously played alongside Smart and forward Jake LaRavia in Memphis, and Smart said he was “excited” to reunite with the guard, whose perimeter scoring is expected to bolster Los Angeles’ second unit.
Smart’s next opportunity to add a chapter to the Lakers-Celtics saga comes Sunday night at Crypto.com Arena, where tip-off is set for 6:30 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.
Source: LakersNation.com
