Los Angeles Lakers rumors have been persistent all offseason. They have already made one major move, hiring JJ Redick as the team’s head coach to replace Darvin Ham. But, they aren’t done shaking things up, as D’Angelo Russell surprised a lot of people by opting into his contract.
After using their second-round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft on Bronny James, it is widely expected that LeBron James will sign a three-year max contract with the team. Who could the team look to bring aboard to help him and Anthony Davis?
D’Angelo Russell could certainly be a useful piece. He played well last season, averaging 18 points per game and knocking down 41.5 percent of his 3-point attempts. The combo guard added 6.3 assists per game as well.
Alas, it doesn’t sound like he will be long for Los Angeles. If recent Lakers rumors come to fruition, D’Angelo Russell could be used as part of a trade package to upgrade the roster with.
According to Jova Buha of The Athletic, Los Angeles is “expected to be aggressive” in exploring trades centered around Russell. Part of the reason the team will explore trade routes is their lack of maneuverability.
Taking account of him opting in and a potential max contract for James, the Lakers would be only $4.8 million below the second apron. That could make it difficult to retain Max Christie in restricted free agency should he get a solid offer sheet from another team.
Trading away D’Angelo Russell could help open up some salary cap space for the Lakers, especially if they trade him to a team with cap space. One team that could be a suitor for him is the Orlando Magic, who could use a veteran floor spacer in the backcourt.
Expect Lakers rumors to continue running rampant in the coming days. With free agency beginning on Sunday, things are going to pick up when it comes to player movement.
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