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 officially signed veteran point guard Marcus Smart on Tuesday, three days after it was reported he agreed to a contract buyout with the Washington Wizards.

While the 76ers expect to have a full deck once they inevitably come to terms with Quentin Grimes on a new deal, the front office should not hesitate to go beyond the 15 guaranteed contracts they have (counting Grimes).