The Los Angeles Lakers are rolling right now, and with additions like Dorian Finney-Smith and Luka Doncic, they have every reason to be. But for some of the guys they shipped out, the fresh start might be just as rewarding, especially D’Angelo Russell.
Russell returned to the Lakers in 2022-23 as part of the Russell Westbrook trade, and at first, it seemed like a great fit. But eventually, defensive issues, playoff struggles and cold streaks caught up to him. Before long, he was taking heat from all sides, lost his starting spot, and by this season, found himself on his way back to Brooklyn.
Now with the Nets, Russell is averaging 13.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game on 38.9% shooting. Not exactly great, and Brooklyn isn’t winning much either, but Russell has made it clear he’s happy with the team. More than that, he admitted his time in L.A. left him feeling ‘a little traumatized.’ Per HoopsHype:
“It’s great. I would never take it for granted, coming from where I came from. Obviously, I was a little traumatized there. To be here and get the opportunity to just be me where there’s familiarity as well is just icing on the cake. I’m at the point in my career where I’m not going out and scoring 25 points every night and wowing with numbers. It’s a point where I’m trying to gravitate towards doing it the right way, and how I can contribute to winning is my priority.”
