The Los Angeles Lakers need more from D’Angelo Russell.
He had his best season in his two stints with the team in 2023-24, but the team could certainly benefit from more consistent play from him.
Even so, despite all the ups and downs and whatnot, Russell’s confidence remains unmoved.
In a recent interview, the Lakers guard claimed that he’s a problem for the opposing team (via NBA Central).
D’Angelo Russell sends a message:
“I’m a problem for the opposing team.”
(Via @ArashMarkazi ) pic.twitter.com/yt2FIZ9XeA
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 30, 2024
When he’s at his best, he’s clearly a very good scorer and facilitator.
The issue with him is that he’s not always at his best.
Russell could give the Lakers a much-needed third star besides LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
The Lakers failed to land any reinforcement in free agency, and Rob Pelinka didn’t trade for any star, so other than their rookies, they will have pretty much the same roster they had last season.
JJ Redick will inherit a flawed roster in his first season as a coach, and that could spell disaster.
The Lakers couldn’t get Dan Hurley to leave UConn and become their next coach, so having a rookie out there is a questionable decision, to say the least.
It’s hard to feel excited about the Lakers ahead of this upcoming season.
They could be a streaky team that gets ice-cold or red-hot every couple of weeks, and they’re by no means a top-tier team in today’s crowded Western Conference.
Then again, if Russell fulfills his word, perhaps things could be a little different for the Purple & Gold.
NEXT:
Anthony Davis Shares JJ Redick’s Plan For Him This Season