Smart, the 2021-22 Defensive Player of the Year, intends to sign with the Lakers on a two-year deal after agreeing to a buyout with the Wizards.

But even taking this into account, the move sits poorly with some Boston fans, simply due to the intense rivalry between the two ball clubs and the razor-thin margin the Celtics now hold over the Lakers in total titles won.

Veteran guard Marcus Smart will sign with the Los Angeles Lakers after receiving a contract buyout from the Washington Wizards, according to a person with knowledge of the deal.