Wizards GM: D’Angelo Russell not expected to report to team

D’Angelo Russell may never actually suit up for the Wizards.

Russell technically landed in Washington as part of last week’s Anthony Davis trade, but general manager Will Dawkins made it clear the situation is fluid. Very fluid.

“We’ve been in contact with D’Angelo and his representatives,” Dawkins said, per Henry J. Brown of SI. “But he won’t report as we try to figure out what’s best for him and us and our future.”

That’s about as close as you can get to saying it without saying it. A waiver or buyout appears to be the likely outcome.

Russell is making $5.7 million this season and holds a player option worth nearly $6 million for 2026-27.

Washington already waived Dante Exum, another player acquired in the deal, clearing the deck further.

Russell was Dallas’ primary free-agent addition last summer but never found traction, averaging just over 10 points in limited minutes.

At 29, Russell has been around. A lot. Two stints with the Lakers, two with the Nets, plus stops in Golden State, Minnesota and Dallas. Scoring talent has never been the question. Fit usually has been.

Dawkins also touched on Jaden Hardy, another former Maverick now in D.C.

“Excited to have another young, scoring athlete,” Dawkins said. “We’ll see him play a little bit toward the end of the season.”

As for Russell, his Wizards chapter may end before it ever starts.