The Los Angeles Lakers are still considering trading for D’Angelo Russell as the NBA trade deadline draws near—just a few days away.
According to sources from ESPN, Dave McMenamin revealed that D’Angelo Russell’s name has been discussed in trade talks with the Brooklyn Nets, Toronto Raptors, and Atlanta Hawks in recent weeks. In spite of the speculations of a trade, the 27-year-old point guard has been playing some of his finest basketball.
Russell led the Lakers with 28 points in their most recent victory over the Charlotte Hornets. They had previously won big games against the Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks. This was their third straight victory.
For the first time since late December, the Lakers’ current surge has lifted them two games over 500 with a 27-25 record.
Strong performances by D’Angelo Russell have played a significant role in this increasing trend. The former Ohio State standout has averaged 22.2 points per game over his previous 16 games, helping the Lakers to a 10-6 record over that time.
Russell’s performance has improved, but the Lakers are still in ninth place in the Western Conference. This has led to rumors that the team is looking to improve its squad and may want to make deals prior to Thursday’s deadline. Russell’s recent return to form suggests that he would be a more attractive trade asset now that he was forced out of the starting lineup earlier in the season. He has a player option for the upcoming campaign, which is important to note.
Not just D’Angelo Russell, but several well-known Lakers players have been named in recent speculations. With a mysterious social media post that included an hourglass emoji, LeBron James ignited rumors. The 39-year-old is not looking for a trade and won’t be dealt, Rich Paul, his agent, reiterated to ESPN.
There were talks about James maybe playing for the Knicks in the future during a recent visit to Madison Square Garden. Furthermore, a local sports anchor in Los Angeles said that the Lakers were considering trading the superstar.
According to reports, James desires the Lakers to take initiative prior to the trade deadline. After Jarred Vanderbilt was injured, the team may be looking to add a wing player with a reputation for excellent defense to their squad. Reports indicate that they have made an offer for Dejounte Murray of the Hawks.
It won’t be long until we know whether D’Angelo Russell’s involvement is required for any of those possible transactions to happen.
