Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell plans to exercise his $18.7 million option to remain with the team, according to multiple reports. Russell was acquired at the 2023 trade deadline and put up two strong regular seasons -- including setting a franchise record last season with 226 3-pointers in 76 games -- but sputtered in the playoffs both years. Last offseason, Russell signed a two-year deal that included this player option. Russell's decision appears to be influenced by the Lakers' recent change at head coach. Los Angeles parted ways with Darvin Ham -- who had a sometimes tumultuous relationship with Russell -- and hired 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 Friday night. Russell, 28, averaged 18.0 points and 6.3 assists last season. Drafted by the Lakers as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, he's averaged 17.8 points and 5.8 assists per game with the Lakers (2015-17, 2023-24), Brooklyn Nets (2017-19), Golden State Warriors (2019-20) and Minnesota Timberwolves (2020-23). He was selected to the All-Star team during the 2018-19 season, when he averaged 21.1 points and 7.0 assists with the Nets. --Field Level Media
Apr 29, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell (1) reacts after a play in the third quarter against the Denver Nuggets during game five of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports