In the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers are always the center of attention. 28-year-old defender D'Angelo Russell, the player who has been a standout in the 2023-24 season, finally made his big decision this week. Russell opted for the executive player option, and his contract is worth $18.7 million this season.
The arrival of new coach J J. Redick seems to have given Russell more confidence. In a report from The Athletic, Shams Charania revealed that Russell opted for an $18.7 million contract and decided to continue playing for the Lakers. As soon as the news came out, Lakers fans were simply happy.
Don't rush to celebrate, Russell's future is not a foregone conclusion in Los Angeles. The team is likely to rebuild the roster around LeBron James, which means Russell's Lakers career could only be temporary. Back in the Western Conference Finals two years ago, Russell's performance was not as good as it could have been, and last season's start was far from meeting the team's expectations.
What's more interesting is that Russell's relationship with former head coach Davin Hamm doesn't seem to be on good terms. The team replaced Ham with Redick in the offseason, does that mean Russell's days with the Lakers will be smoother?
Lakers management still has two cards in their hands: Dalton Knecht, the 17th pick, and Bronny James, who was drafted with the 55th pick. The addition of these two new stars will bring new vitality to the Lakers. Will management decide to package up a group of players, including Russell, who is about to expire on his contract, to improve the roster? This is another unknown that makes people look forward to it.
In this season full of uncertainties, every move of the Lakers touches the hearts of fans. Is Russell's stay a recognition of his ability by the team, or a bigger strategic layout? We will have to wait for time to reveal the answer.
The Lakers' summer is always so exciting. Russell's decision is just the beginning of the Lakers' offseason story, and more exciting is yet to come.