D’Angelo Russell’s somber behavior following the Los Angeles Lakers’ victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night didn’t go unnoticed.
Many immediately began to speculate that a trade involving the 27-year-old was on the horizon:
D’Angelo Russell saying his goodbyes to the Laker fans
— KF (@klutchfamilia) January 22, 2024
D’Angelo Russell had one of his best games as a Laker last night and got them a win, but he appeared to be crying after the game…
Is D Lo gone from LA?! #LakeShow pic.twitter.com/2kJQtt1bPI
— Happy Hour Hoops (@happyhourhoops1) January 22, 2024
They’re trading him aren’t they 💔 pic.twitter.com/2wbY0yLgug
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) January 22, 2024
In recent days, the deal L.A. has been most closely linked to is one centering around Dejounte Murray of the Atlanta Hawks. To date, one roadblock has consistently remained – but it seems like all parties involved are committed to finding a workaround.
That being said, if this transaction does go through, Atlanta doesn’t plan on keeping Russell.
“Any framework for a Murray trade to the Lakers would likely involve guard D’Angelo Russell,” league sources told Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
“However, that would be contingent on Russell being flipped to a third team from Atlanta in the process. Russell’s $18.69 million player option for next season and his playing style next to Trae Young isn’t viewed as a fit for the Hawks.”
In recent days L.A. has been linked to a surprising trade with the Golden State Warriors, a notable role player and two big name point guards.
Russell Wilson Called Out Over Ciara, Vanessa Bryant Photos: https://t.co/KxxU9fdtIv
— Game 7 (@game7__) January 21, 2024
That being said, it is hard to ignore how closely they have been linked to Murray.
Barring something crazy unfolding, if a move is made – that will likely be it.
Where will Russell be playing once the NBA Trade Deadline comes and goes this year? Time will tell.
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A longtime sports reporter, Carlos Garcia has written about some of the biggest and most notable athletic events of the last 5 years. He has been credentialed to cover MLS, NBA and MLB games all over the United States. His work has been published on Fox Sports, Bleacher Report, AOL and the Washington Post.
