Here we are in 2003, at LeBron’s high school game, when Gloria, LeBron’s mom, came out in full jersey to cheer on her son.
“The Future With the Lakers Is Real,” D’Angelo Russell Says
If D’Angelo Russell so desires, he will have another opportunity to reach free agency in 2024. He inked a two-year, $36 million deal with the Lakers, and they also gave him a player option for 2024. Russell has expressed his desire to remain in Los Angeles, despite the fact that his future there is unknown.
According to a story published on March 27 by HoopsHype, Russell expressed his desire to remain in this position and keep pushing forward, as he described it to Michael Scotto. I know what it’s like to be on the receiving end of free agency and the ups and downs of waiting around because I’ve been there. When that is taken care of, I will no longer have to worry about it. I’ve been fortunate enough to have my play put me in this situation. I intend to make full use of that opportunity. When that moment arrives, I have faith that everything will unfold according to plan.
In 2023–24, Russell has been solid, averaging 18.2 ppg and 6.4 apg. Shooting 46.3% from the field and 42.3% from beyond the arc, he has also demonstrated his efficiency.
The Laker roster might see a slew of free agents, not just Russell. LeBron James may potentially decide to test the waters by opting out of his deal. If the Lakers want to start again in 2024, Russell might find himself playing for a different team.
Austin Reaves Censored by D’Angelo RussellAfter the Lakers rallied to defeat the Milwaukee Bucks in double OT, Russell took to his X account to yell out Reaves. When asked about Reeves’ performance, Russell could only muster three words.
After posting “Austin F****** Reaves” on X on March 26, Russell later removed the message.
With 29 points, 14 boards, and 10 assists in 47 minutes of play, Reeves recorded a triple-double. Additionally, he connected on ten shots, four of them were long range.The Lakers’ comeback was helped along by Russell. With 12 assists and seven rebounds, he scored 29 points. Even though he shot poorly overall (7 for 22), five of Russell’s seven attempts were from beyond the arc. Russell, meanwhile, made all ten of his free throw attempts.
Surprisingly, even without LeBron, the Lakers were able to defeat the Bucks. With the win, the Lakers improved their record to 40–32, good enough for ninth place in the Western Conference.
Spurs and Magic Identified as Potential D’Angelo Russell RivalsIn the same piece, Scotto laid out the reasons why the Spurs, Magic, and Jazz could all be interested in pursuing Russell. The former No. 2 pick’s potential addition to the Magic was laid out by him.
According to Scotto, “rival executives believe the Magic are a team to monitor this offseason to make a notable upgrade and improve their shooting.” The article mentions that the Magic have signed Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs, and Paolo Banchero to rookie-scale contracts, while Wendell Carter has signed a team-friendly deal. “Russell could play either off or on the ball with Banchero, Wagner, and Suggs if Orlando is interested in him during free agency.”
Scotto elaborated by saying that fresh NBA sensation Victor Wembanyama may encourage the Spurs to assemble a stronger roster around him, including Russell.
“The Spurs have the flexibility to improve the roster and be more competitive around Victor Wembanyama, who has lived up to the hype and more as the expected Rookie of the Year,” Scotto wrote, referring to the Spurs’ situation relative to San Antonio’s rebuilding. “Given the Spurs’ current roster situation, they would have to determine if the 28-year-old Russell is a good long-term fit or a valuable stopgap.”
For the 2024 NBA Offseason, it makes no difference if Russell opts in.