Insider Says Lakers Star Will Opt for Free Agency in 2024.
The Los Angeles Lakers will need to make a few choices when the NBA offseason starts. Whether to retain D’Angelo Russell on for the long run may be one of those choices.
In the April 8 edition of “The Hoop Collective,” ESPN’s Brian Windhorst disclosed that Russell intends to test free agency by opting out of his contract.
According to Windhorst, “I think it’s highly likely that he won’t accept the option.” “You dedicate your entire life to having just finished an amazing season of freedom.”
In 2023, Russell agreed to a two-year, $36 million deal with the Lakers, which included a player option. Russell has contributed significantly to the Lakers’ success in his first full season back with the team. He has averaged 18.2 points and 6.3 assists in 73 games. In addition, he is making about 46% of his field goals and 42% of his threes.
In 2023, Russell contributed to the Lakers’ trip back to the Western Conference Finals. His ability to score goals and contribute to a winning club may help him get another lucrative deal. Whether or not to pay him is up to the Lakers.
D’Angelo Russell Is Settled With The Lakers
Russell said he would want to stay with the Lakers, even if it looks he will choose to opt out of his contract with them.
He gave a reason for wanting to stay with the Lakers and spoke up about his feelings about being a free agency.
Russell stated to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype in a report published on March 27 that “I’d love to be here and continue to give it a run and be where my feet are now.” It goes without saying that I have experienced both sides of the roller coaster that is free agency and having to wait. It will be nice not to have to worry about it. With my play, I’ve had the good fortune to place myself in this situation. Without a doubt, I want to take advantage of that. I believe that everything will work out as it should when that time comes.