The LA Lakers are fully utilizing the off-season to optimize their roster. They have gone from hiring an inexperienced head coach and some newbie talents to planning on trading their existing players. The one reportedly on their radar is D’Angelo Russell.
Spilling out the franchise’s potential strategy, The Athletics’ Jovan Buha recently stated, “The Lakers are expected to be aggressive in pursuing Russell-centric trades according to league and team sources, Russell’s expiring contract immediately becomes one of the Lakers’ more valuable trade assets, particularly for salary matching purposes.”
According to the Insider, the Lakers would consider trading one of the guards between Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell. Being the better option, they could be keeping Reaves, which leaves DLo open for trade.
This is not the first time the franchise has tried to trade Russell. Even in the previous trade window, there were rumors surrounding him. The 28-year-old homecoming to the Lakers last year was expected to be grand, but he couldn’t live up to the expectation.
Russell certainly displayed glimpses of brilliance in the 2023-2024 regular season but failed to contribute in the playoffs. His contribution of 18.0 points, 3.1 rebounds and 6.3 assists in the regular season was helpful. However, the numbers dropped to 14.2 points, 2.8 rebounds and 4.2 assists in the playoffs.
The Lakers have remained unimpressed with Russell’s performance and are seriously considering the trade despite the point guard deciding to stay back.
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D’Angelo Russell on His Lakers Future
D’Angelo Russell had a player option for the 2024-2025 season which he exercised a day prior to the deadline. DLo thought it was best to accept the $18.7 million contract and remain with the Lakers.
Stating the reason for his decision, Russell said, “I love what JJ is about, and I really see myself thriving under his guidance to help win at a high level.” Appears like the new coach Redick has won most of his teammates’ trust, who are excited to work under him.
Russell has taken his decision and left the ball on the franchise’s court. Now it will be interesting to see what the Lakers’ next move around DLo will be.
