Kofi Inkoom
Anthony Irwin of Lakers Daily reports that the Los Angeles Lakers have a strategy in mind regarding D’Angelo Russell. They are considering re-signing him, not necessarily with the intention of keeping him for the entire 2024-25 NBA season, but rather to facilitate a potential trade.
The Lakers believe it would be easier to move him if he has a new contract, either during the upcoming offseason or at the 2025 deadline.
Irwin writes, “Now, the Lakers, I’m told, are going to try harder to make sure he takes a one-year deal that would be easier to move at the deadline, if not this summer, but are somewhat wary of his market given how he played in the regular season. Russell’s name has already been linked to the Orlando Magic due to their need for scoring guards.”
Despite a solid regular season performance, Russell’s playoff performance was lackluster, a recurring pattern in his career. The Lakers reportedly attempted to trade him at the deadline, but his player option complicated matters. Also, Los Angeles acknowledge the defensive challenges of pairing Russell with Austin Reaves in the backcourt and are considering sign-and-trade options.
Russell’s player option for the 2024-25 NBA season is valued at $18.6 million, but the Lakers are exploring the possibility of a new contract followed by a trade to avoid losing him for nothing. Potential trade partners include the Orlando Magic and the Cleveland Cavaliers, especially if they decide to part ways with Donovan Mitchell.
The Lakers have already parted ways with head coach Darvin Ham, whose relationship with Russell may have been strained. The new head coach will likely have input on Russell’s future and the team’s overall roster decisions.
Additionally, the Lakers must consider the future of LeBron James, who also holds a player option. While James could become a free agent, he is more inclined to re-sign with a three-year max contract, potentially with a final year option.