D’Angelo Russell has the option to become a free agent again in 2024. The Los Angeles Lakers signed him to a two-year, $36 million deal with a player option for 2024. Although his future with the Lakers is uncertain, Russell has expressed his desire to remain with the team. Los Angeles Lakers signed him to a two-year, $36 million contract with a player option for 2024. Despite not knowing what will happen in Los Angeles, Russell has conveyed his wish to continue playing for the team.
“I would like to stay here and keep giving it a shot and be present in the moment,” Russell told HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto in a story on March 27. in a March 27 story. “Certainly, I have been through the roller coaster of free agency and having to wait. I am looking forward to not having to worry about that. I have been fortunate enough to put myself in this position with my performance. I definitely plan to take advantage of that. When the time comes, I believe everything will unfold as it should.”
During the 2023-24 season, Russell has been averaging 18.2 points and 6.4 assists. He has also shown his effectiveness by shooting 46.3% from the field and 42.3% from three., Russell has averaged 18.2 points and 6.4 assists. He has also proven his efficiency by shooting 46.3% from the field and 42.3% from three.
Russell is not the only Laker who might enter free agency. LeBron James could also choose to leave his contract for new opportunities. If the Lakers decide to start fresh, Russell might end up playing for a different team in 2024.
D’Angelo Russell Specifically Mentions Austin Reaves
After the Lakers made a comeback from being 19 points down to defeat the Milwaukee Bucks Milwaukee Bucks to win in double overtime, Russell recognized Reaves on his X account. Russell had a brief response to Reeves’ performance.
“Austin F****** Reaves,” Russell posted on X on March 26, which Russell has since deleted. In 47 minutes of play, Reeves achieved a triple-double: 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists. He also made 10 shots, four of which were from long range. Russell himself played a role in the Lakers’ comeback. He scored 29 points, 12 assists, and seven rebounds. Russell’s shooting was not very efficient, as he made seven out of 22 shots, but five of his seven shots were three-pointers. Additionally, Russell made all 10 of his free throws.
Most notably, the Lakers defeated the Bucks without LeBron. Following the win, the Lakers have a record of 40-32, placing them at the No. 9 seed in the Western Conference
Magic & Spurs Identified as Potential Suitors for D’Angelo Russell
In Scotto’s same article, he explained why the Magic, Spurs, and Jazz might pursue Russell. He detailed how the Magic could incorporate the former No. 2 pick. “With Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs on rookie-scale contracts and Wendell Carter on a team-friendly deal, rival executives believe the Magic are a team to monitor this offseason to make a notable upgrade and improve their shooting,” Scotto wrote. “Should Orlando have interest in Russell during free agency, he could play on or off the ball alongside Banchero, Wagner, and Suggs.”.
Scotto added that new NBA starlet Victor Wembanyama could push the Spurs to build a better team around him with someone like Russell.
“While San Antonio is rebuilding, 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. “The Spurs would have to decide if the 28-year-old Russell would be a worthwhile stop-gap or long-term fit, given where the team’s roster is.”
If Russell chooses to use his option, then it won’t be important for the 2024 NBA Offseason.
While he has a team choice in the upcoming offseason, D’Angelo Russell shared his desire to remain with the Lakers beyond this season.
“While San Antonio is rebuilding, 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. “The Spurs would have to decide if the 28-year-old Russell would be a worthwhile stop-gap or long-term fit, given where the team’s roster is.”
If Russell opts in, then it won’t matter for the 2024 NBA Offseason.
