It seems like every season, D'Angelo Russell 's name floats around in trade rumors. This offseason was more of the same, although nothing came out of it, and he will likely continue to be a member of the Los Angeles Lakers by the time the 2024-25 regular season starts.
Russell addressed the challenge of being in rumors during the Lakers' media day, saying he has gotten used to it and that his recourse is to "stay steady." However, Bill Simmons issued him a harsh reality check, as The Ringer founder stated his stay in Los Angeles would be coming to an end soon.
"D'Angelo, maybe don't start looking at HoopsHype around early December when the trade rumor season starts because you're not gonna be on the team in March," Simmons said . "I'm sorry. Seems like a nice guy."
Unloading DLo
How long Russell spends with the Lakers remains a mystery, even if new coach JJ Redick recently revealed his big plans for the score-first point guard. His fit with the roster has been uneven.
D'Angelo has produced fairly well in the regular season. In the 2023-24 campaign, he averaged 18.0 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.0 3-pointers per game on efficient shooting (45.6% from the field and 41.5% from beyond the arc). However, the former All-Star has the tendency to choke in the playoffs.
For that reason, the Lakers might have a hard time looking for a trade partner for Russell unless they tack on a sweetener, such as a second-round pick. However, perhaps having an expiring contract will attract more suitors for the second overall pick of the 2015 draft. Or the organization could use DLo's salary in a package that would land a disgruntled star in the middle of the 2024-25 campaign.
Sticking with their guns
Only time will tell if Simmons' prediction will come true, but it's looking more and more like the Kentucky native will be in Los Angeles beyond March. In addition to the factors mentioned above, the team doesn't appear to have a marksman who can also create shots for himself or others when needed.
Maybe Max Christie or Dalton Knecht can grow into that role, but who knows how long that would take? The Lakers can't afford to be that patient, as LeBron James is nearing retirement, and Anthony Davis is already 31 years old.
As Russell proclaimed, all he can do is run the course he is on. The good news for him is that there is the possibility of the Purple and Gold breaking out this season, and D'Angelo might play a significant role in it.
Related: "Get him out of here! Take him out!" - Bill Simmons shares hearing Lakers fans bash D’Angelo Russell in Game 3
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