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.

The Los Angeles Lakers have officially waived veteran guard Shake Milton in a move to clear cap space for the signing of Marcus Smart, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Milton’s $3 million contract for the 2025–26 season was set to become fully guaranteed, but the Lakers acted swiftly, making the decision to part ways before the deadline.

ESPN's Shams Charania reported Sunday that Los Angeles waived the guard in an effort to clear financial space to add Marcus Smart. Milton's $3 million contract for the 2025-26 campaign was set to become fully guaranteed on Sunday had the Purple and Gold not moved on from him.