D’Angelo Russell turned the corner in game 4 against the Nuggets after a dismal game 3. D’Lo went from zero to 21 points, helping the Lakers stay afloat in the series. The Lakers HC Darvin Ham expressed his confidence in the guard, but D’Angelo didn’t really need it.
When the 28-year-old was informed of his HC’s vote of confidence, D’Angelo said, “I believe in myself more than anybody. I don’t need that, but I appreciate it.”
The 2019 NBA All-Star scored 21 points on Saturday night along with 4 rebounds and 4 assists, while going 8-15 from the field. His self-confidence was justified after coming back from the 0-3-2 stat line of game 3, but his tone did not sound too appreciative of his coach’s backing.
After a stop-start season, D’Lo’s stay with the West Coast franchise seems unlikely and rumors of it are already circulating around the NBA market.
D’Angelo Russell Reportedly To Hit Free Agency In Summer
After spending the whole of the last trade window being linked to a trade away from the Lakers, D’Lo is reportedly considering doing so in the summer. He was the main bargaining chip for the Lakers to bring in Dejounte Murray from the Hawks, but that never materialized.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
According to Brian Windhorst, Russell is “likely” to decline his player option and hit free agency in the summer. D’Lo signed a two-year, $36 million contract last off-season with an $18.7 million player option for year two.
In the regular season, D’Angelo Russell scored 18.0 points per game while shooting 41.5% from downtown and 45.6% from field goals. With rumors of Trae Young sure to surface again in the off-season, Russell hitting free agency will make sense for both parties. The guard can make more on his next contract, and he certainly backs himself for that as he will have another chance to increase his value in game 5 against the Nuggets on Monday.
