Lakers’ JJ Redick expects big role for former lottery pick

The Los Angeles Lakers held media day on Monday as the team prepares for the start of the NBA season.

During media interviews, the Lakers' first-year head coach JJ Redick had many interesting things to say, including his big plans for the team’s former lottery pick.

"Throughout the summer, he (D’Angelo Russell) was probably the guy I talked to the most," Redick told the media Monday. "He's going to have a major role on this team."

The Lakers originally drafted Russell with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft. However, the versatile guard was traded from the team in 2017 before bouncing around three organizations. Fast forward to 2023, and Russell found his way back to Los Angeles through a midseason trade from the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Ohio State product averaged 18 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.1 rebounds on 45.6% shooting from field goal range and 41.5% from three. Despite his solid stats, the playmaker’s name floated in trade deadlines throughout last year and the offseason.

“He wants to put Russell in a position to have a career year," Laker's Beat Reporter Mike Trudell also reported Monday. "Said Russell's mindset and leadership have been excellent.”

Many people didn’t expect Russell to return to Los Angeles, let alone have a big role within the Lakers offense. Nonetheless, Redick has a different perspective on the 28-year-old’s fit on the roster.

That said, Russell has the talent to be a game-changer, and if the rookie head coach puts him in a position to utilize his strengths, he could be in for a career year.

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