D’Angelo Russell has appeared to be on the transfer list since the last two trade deadlines as the Los Angeles Lakers have been constantly looking to upgrade their roster. The former lottery pick is staying in Los Angeles, but the question is for how long?
Russell started out in the league as a point guard, regarded as an excellent passer and crafty scorer. Over his 11-year career, the 28-year-old has proven himself as a playmaker, but he hasn’t found a long-term place in either league.
The Ohio State product was drafted by the Lakers in 2015 before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets in 2017. Since then, Russell has spent time with the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves before returning to LA in 2022.
Last season, Russell averaged 18 points, 6.3 assists and 3.1 rebounds on 45.6 percent shooting, including 41.5 percent from three-point range. Not only did Russell prove to be a consistent scorer, but he also showed improvement defensively last year.
All things considered, Russell seems like the perfect fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. However, rumors suggest that Lakers management may think otherwise.
For now, Russell remains with the Lakers as the season approaches. And with the arrival of new head coach JJ Redick, it will be interesting to see if the basketball guru has a specific role he would like Russell to fill with the team before engaging in further trade discussions.
Still, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the 6-foot-3 point guard suiting up for another team by the end of the 2024-25 NBA season.
More NBA: NBA insider doesn’t believe Julius Randle will get contract extension from Knicks
