Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
Bringing Russell back would be a feel-good story. That’s not a significant factor in this deal, with that said.
Russell’s fit with LeBron James, by contrast, is. It’s not a perfect fit. Russell is a ball-dominant guard who likes to probe defenses in the pick-and-roll. He can shoot, but he’s not an elite off-ball threat.
Here’s the bottom line – he can shoot. Russell will space the floor while James is controlling the offense, and he can relieve him of ball-handling duties when he isn’t.
Meanwhile, Kyle Anderson is a nice addition too. He’s a versatile forward who can shoot, defend and make plays.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: D’Angelo Russell, Minnesota Timberwolves & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
All told, this deal will make the Lakers better. It may be a desperate measure that actually works.