In a surprising turn of events, Anton Watson, a former Boston Celtics draft pick, has found a new home with the Los Angeles Lakers, joining forces with another ex-Celtic, Marcus Smart. This unexpected reunion of Celtics alumni in the heart of Lakers territory marks a fascinating chapter in their respective journeys, as both players look to carve out new roles and rewrite their NBA stories.
Anton Watson’s Winding Path to Los Angeles
Selected by the Boston Celtics with the 54th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Anton Watson initially turned heads during the Las Vegas Summer League, showcasing his versatility as a forward who can pass, screen, and shoot from multiple levels. However, the rookie struggled to translate that promise into regular-season production. Despite signing a two-way deal with Boston, Watson never saw the court under head coach Joe Mazzulla. Midseason, the Celtics waived him, marking a challenging start to his professional career.
Watson’s journey didn’t end there. He briefly landed with the New York Knicks, making nine appearances but failing to secure a permanent roster spot. Now, entering his second year as a pro, the Los Angeles Lakers have thrown him a lifeline with a training camp deal, likely an Exhibit 10 contract aimed at funneling him to their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers.
Watson’s time at Gonzaga highlighted his potential as a skilled forward with a well-rounded game. However, his lack of elite athleticism and size has made his NBA path a difficult one. To stick in the league, Watson will need to prove he can impact games consistently, whether through defensive tenacity, playmaking, or timely shooting. His opportunity with the Lakers represents a fresh start to redefine his career trajectory.
Marcus Smart: A Celtics Legend in Lakers Purple and Gold
Adding to the intrigue, Watson joins Marcus Smart, a beloved former Celtic who recently signed with the Lakers after the Washington Wizards bought out his contract. Smart, the 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, was a cornerstone of Boston’s gritty, championship-caliber culture before being traded in 2023 as part of a three-team deal that brought Kristaps Porzingis to the Celtics. Since leaving Boston, Smart has battled injuries, which have limited his impact and kept him out of the playoffs.
Now in Los Angeles, Smart is poised to bring his signature defensive intensity and leadership to JJ Redick’s squad. Known for locking down opponents’ best players and serving as a connective “glue guy” alongside star forwards, Smart’s presence could be a game-changer for a Lakers team looking to bolster its defense and return to postseason contention. For Smart, this move is a chance to reclaim his place among the NBA’s elite defenders and prove he remains a vital asset.
A Celtics-Lakers Connection Amid Boston’s Challenges
The arrival of Watson and Smart in Los Angeles creates a fascinating narrative, especially given the historic rivalry between the Celtics and Lakers. While Watson never played alongside Smart in Boston, their shared Celtics roots add an extra layer of intrigue as they team up to chase success in purple and gold.
Meanwhile, back in Boston, the Celtics are navigating a turbulent period. The team has endured a tough offseason, with key members of their 2024 championship roster departing and star forward Jayson Tatum sidelined by a serious Achilles tendon injury sustained during the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Knicks. However, hope is on the horizon. On September 27, 2025, Tatum sent Celtics fans into a frenzy with a YouTube video showcasing his on-court progress. The All-NBA forward was seen jogging, shooting, and working through movement drills, signaling that he’s ahead of schedule in his recovery.
While there’s no guarantee Tatum will return this season, his progress offers a glimmer of optimism for a Celtics team that has seen its championship aspirations tempered. Even with Tatum’s potential return, Boston is unlikely to emerge as a top contender this season, but his presence could still spark a strong campaign.
For Anton Watson, the Lakers’ training camp deal is a critical opportunity to prove he belongs in the NBA. For Marcus Smart, it’s a chance to rediscover his defensive dominance and help elevate a Lakers team hungry for playoff success. Together, these former Celtics are rewriting their stories in an unexpected setting, donning the colors of Boston’s fiercest rival.
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, the convergence of these narratives—Watson’s fight for a roster spot, Smart’s quest for redemption, and Tatum’s inspiring recovery—promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats. The Celtics’ past is alive in Los Angeles, and the basketball world will be watching to see how this unbelievable twist unfolds.