Report: Lakers Trying To Trade D’Angelo Russell

According to NBA reporter Jovan Buha of The Athletic, the Los Angeles Lakers are trying to trade D’Angelo Russell. 

Russell picked up his 2024-25 player option worth $18.7 million. 

The Lakers have been shopping D’Angelo Russell since he opted into his deal, according to @jovanbuha. pic.twitter.com/vEL1DgUK8g

— Lakers Daily (@LakersDailyCom) July 26, 2024

A one-time All-Star, Russell averaged 18.0 points, 3.1 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.5 blocks in 2023-24 while shooting 45.6% from the field, 41.5% from beyond the arc and 82.8% from the free-throw line. 

The Lakers lost to the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the 2024 playoffs in five games.

Denver also beat Los Angeles in the 2023 Western Conference Finals in four games. 

Russell told NBA reporter Dave McMenamin of ESPN he wants to stay with the Lakers and play for new head coach JJ Redick. 

“I love what JJ is about and I really see myself thriving under his guidance to help win at a high level,” Russell told ESPN. 

One of the best shooters in NBA history, Redick has yet to coach above the youth level. He played 15 years in the NBA with the Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans and Dallas Mavericks.

According to Buha, Shams Charania and Sam Amick, Redick is focused on elevating Anthony Davis’ involvement and alleviating LeBron James‘ workload.

LeBron, 39, is the oldest player in the NBA. He turns 40 in December. 

“He explained his decision-making process when it comes to strategy, how the analysis and empirical evidence would always guide his choices rather than preconceived notions or outdated beliefs,” Charania, Buha and Amick wrote. “Redick described a system molded around this roster, focusing on elevating Davis’ involvement, particularly late in games, and alleviating the constant ballhandling duties on James by utilizing him more off the ball. Keeping James, who turns 40 in December, fresh down the stretch of the regular season and into the playoffs will be critical.”