What Celtics' Jaylen Brown thinks of Marcus Smart joining the Lakers

In July, former Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart signed a two-year, $11 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, which shocked and even felt like a betrayal to many Boston fans. However, Celtics star Jaylen Brown expressed no anger toward Smart's decision, recognizing it as a business move rather than a personal choice.

Brown, who was drafted by Boston nearly a decade ago, initially disliked Smart but grew close to him over time, learning leadership from the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year. Despite their strong bond, the Celtics traded Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies in the summer of 2023, a move that ultimately benefited Boston as they won their 18th championship the following season, with Brown earning the 2024 NBA Finals MVP. Smart's transition was less smooth; after playing only 39 games for the Grizzlies, he was traded to the Washington Wizards at the 2025 deadline, and following a contract buyout, he chose to join the Lakers.

On his Twitch channel, Brown defended Smart's decision, stating, "Can't really be mad at it... We act like he chose — he got traded!" He sympathized with Smart's unwanted departure from Boston and shared his own experiences with involuntary trade talks, describing the NBA rumor mill as a business that has strengthened him. Brown noted, "It just molds you. My jacket is built different now," emphasizing how such challenges have prepared him for criticism and adversity.

Looking ahead to the 2025-26 regular season, Brown's ability to handle external pressures will be crucial, especially with star forward Jayson Tatum expected to be unhealthy, potentially leaving Brown to bear the brunt of media scrutiny as the Celtics' new go-to player. Brown is seen as capable of managing harsh narratives and outside noise effectively.