(Listen to Russell respond to the trade talks around 1:30)
When the Los Angeles Lakers have the no. 2 overall pick in the NBA Draft, you have to expect they will test some blockbuster trade waters. It was recently reported that the Lakers were considering making a trade involving point guard D’Angelo Russell for another top-5 draft pick.
Russell claims he has been reassured by Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak himself that he shouldn’t be concerned about being traded.
Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak reassures D’Angelo Russell not to worry about trade talks: pic.twitter.com/LdXpBjuYew
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) June 22, 2016
Russell went through an alleged social struggle with the team during his rookie season because of the Nick Young incident, but his development as a basketball player was true. He seems to have earned the right to at least continue to prove himself worthy as the Lakers point guard of the future. He’ll have even more room to shine next season with Kobe Bryant now retired.
That being said, trading Russell for the right deal still wouldn’t be overlooked. Not to be pessimistic, but Kupchak could have given Russell that reassurance after they had surveyed their options. Another top five draft pick is about the right worth for Russell given he was drafted no. 2 overall last summer. The Lakers will always be expected to test the waters, but it appears Russell is still there to stay.
