NBA rumors: How D'Angelo Russell's improved play off bench impacts Lakers' trade strategy
11/19/2024 04:35 PM
The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a pivotal decision regarding guard D'Angelo Russell amid ongoing trade rumors. According to Lakers senior reporter Anthony Irwin, Russell's recent resurgence in a bench role has complicated the team's trade considerations.
After a slow start to the season, Russell was shifted to the bench by head coach JJ Redick. The adjustment has sparked significant improvement, with the Lakers currently riding a five-game winning streak. They hold a 9-4 record, placing them third in the Western Conference standings ahead of their second NBA Cup matchup against the Utah Jazz (3-10) on Tuesday night.
Statistically, Russell’s impact has been undeniable. While his season averages of 12.1 points, 4.8 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game on 40.6% shooting from the field and 32.9% from three-point range are career lows, his on-court contributions tell a different story. Irwin highlights that the Lakers are 8.2 points per 100 possessions better offensively when Russell is on the court and 12.1 points per 100 possessions worse when he's off.
During the Lakers’ five-game win streak, these metrics have surged further. The team is 19.9 points per 100 possessions better with Russell on the floor and 5.4 points worse without him. Notably, the Lakers are scoring an impressive 128.5 points per 100 possessions during this stretch, showcasing the bench unit’s offensive firepower with Russell leading the charge.
D’Angelo Russell’s resurgence off the bench complicates Lakers’ trade pursuit
This newfound efficiency presents a challenge for the Lakers. Russell's buy-in to a reduced role has elevated the team's overall performance, raising questions about whether the front office would be willing to trade him. The team has reportedly been exploring options to add a big man to complement Anthony Davis, as ESPN's Shams Charania recently mentioned on The Pat McAfee Show. Charania indicated the Lakers might adopt an aggressive approach in pursuit of a roster upgrade.
Russell's current role has sparked debate within the organization. While his individual numbers have dipped, his overall contributions to the Lakers’ success in a bench role may make it difficult to part ways with him, even for a potential upgrade in the frontcourt. Balancing the desire to improve their roster with the risk of disrupting their newfound chemistry could influence the team's strategy as the season progresses.
The Los Angeles Lakers' decision-making will likely hinge on Russell's ability to sustain this level of play and whether the market offers a deal compelling enough to justify the risk of altering a winning formula. For now, Russell's resurgence has made him a central figure in the Lakers' evolving trade strategy.
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