Taking up his player option for this season worth $18.7 million, D’Angelo Russell is currently in the news of his NBA trade rumors. The Los Angeles Lakers star with a nine-season career and achievements under him will soon be with a new franchise. Besides the Lakers, the point guard has been part of the Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Drafted by the Lakers in 2015, Russell is coming off a great season, averaging 18.0 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game. According to Anthony Irwin of Lakers Daily, the NBA star will likely be linked with the Brooklyn Nets and Toronto Raptors.
“Portland has no interest in Russell, according to sources close to that situation,” wrote Anthony Irwin. “League sources also say Washington is wary of pairing Russell with fellow space cadet Jordan Poole. Toronto and Brooklyn are more open to acquiring the nine-year veteran, but more for his expiring contract than for what he’d do on the court.
Russell’s comeback seems quite strong with a two-season stint in the Nets, with a career average of 19.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.
D’Angelo Russell’s reaction to trade rumors
Third leading-scorer of the Lakers behind LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Russell’s trade rumors led him to make a cryptic post on Twitter.
Russell, who previously expressed interest in continuing with the Lakers amid his trade talks, seems to be in a different mindset now. Quoting his intent to play with the Lakers’ new coach, JJ Redick, he stated, “I love what JJ is about, and I really see myself thriving under his guidance to help win at a high level.”
Acquiring young talents like Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, the Lakers are looking for a new roster. Losing a talent like Russell, who had a record of 226 3-pointers made last season, the Lakers are left with stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
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