According to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha, who reported the information on his podcast “Buha’s Block,” the Los Angeles Lakers have been exploring a trade for D’Angelo Russell ever since he agreed to a contract, which would be of great interest to the Washington Wizards.
This isn’t to say the Wizards should go all out and acquire D’Angelo Russell, but he’s by no means the worst player they could potentially get in a deal.
The last time Russell had some freedom in a rebuilding situation was years ago with the Brooklyn Nets, and while he’s not the player he was back then, he could help Washington’s young core.
Russell remains a good playmaker and a decent, if highly inconsistent, three-point shooter, two attributes that could help the Wizards.
Last year, Russell averaged 18.0 points, 3.1 rebounds and 6.3 assists for the Lakers while shooting 45.6 percent from the field and 41.5 percent from the 3-point line.
If Russell stays with the team next year, the Wizards would have a little more space on the floor and take some of the playmaking pressure off rookie Babb Carrington. Russell could also help Alex Sarr and Kai’Sean George score more easily.
Additionally, a trade Washington could make in exchange for Russell would send Kyle Kuzma to the Lakers, likely returning a first-round draft pick in that deal, which would be valuable.
But perhaps the best thing about a Kuzma-for-Russell swap is that Russell is only under contract for next season and then off after that, which is ideal for Washington.
Having financial freedom would be extremely helpful as the Wizards try to rebuild, and Kuzma is making a ton of money. He’s a great player, but he doesn’t fit into Washington’s long-term plans.
Acquiring Russell as a point guard and adding some draft capital would be a win for the Wizards, especially if Russell can help develop some of their young players for a season.