/sportsinfo/media/member_avatars/image 59.png)
/sportsinfo/media/member_avatars/WhatsApp Image 2024-05-25 at 00.35.37.jpeg )
Follow Us/sportsinfo/media/media_files/YmiBNzS5OxBUNL8fZnRE.jpg)
D'Angelo Russell (Source: X)
Los Angeles Lakers point guard D'Angelo Russell plans to exercise his option for the final year of his contract, securing his place with the team for the upcoming season. The 28-year-old is set to earn $18.7 million for the year. He revealed his intentions in a discussion with the media just before the deadline.
Coming off as a strong season, Russell's performance was particularly noteworthy in the second half. He concluded his ninth NBA season with impressive averages: 18.0 points per game on 45.6% shooting, including a stellar 41.5% from beyond the arc, along with 6.3 assists and 3.1 rebounds.
Russell's decision comes amidst a backdrop of trade speculations from last season. Despite being a focal point in trade discussions, Russell has expressed his commitment to the Lakers and his enthusiasm for playing under the team's new head coach, JJ Redick. "I love what JJ is about and I see myself thriving under his guidance to help win at a high level," Russell told ESPN.
LA Lakers added Bronny James to the squad
The Lakers have been making strategic moves in the offseason, including drafting Dalton Knecht and Bronny James. These additions and the potential to trade two future first-round picks indicate a possible reconfiguration of the team's lineup. Russell's expiring contract could be a key component in future trades, offering the Lakers flexibility in their roster planning.
In addition to Russell, centre Jaxson Hayes is also expected to opt into the final year of his contract. Hayes, 24, joined the Lakers last summer after four seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans. The No. 8 overall pick in 2019, Hayes averaged 4.3 points and 3.0 rebounds over 70 games last season.
The coaching change from Darvin Ham to JJ Redick is another significant development for the Lakers. Redick, known for his elite 3-point shooting during his playing career, has emphasized increasing the team's 3-point attempts in the upcoming season. Russell's proficiency from beyond the arc aligns well with Redick's vision, as Russell set a Lakers' single-season record with 226 made 3-pointers last season.