Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell, a frequent contender in trade talks, has opted into the final year of his contract, according to people with knowledge of the decision who were not authorized to speak publicly. The deal is worth $18.7 million.
Russell averaged 18 points and 6.3 assists on 45.6% shooting from the field and 41.5% from three-pointers. His 226 made three-pointers last season were a franchise record.
Friday was “D’Angelo Russell Day” in Louisville, Kentucky, in recognition of his philanthropy in his hometown.
Russell’s name has been mentioned in transfer rumors during his time with the Lakers after mixed performances in the playoffs.
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Russell, 28, and Christian Wood aren’t the only Lakers exercising their player options. According to AthleticsJaxson Hayes opts for his deal. Cam Reddish and LeBron James have until Saturday to decide on their options.
The decisions leave the Lakers with a nearly complete roster heading into free agency. The team added four players during the NBA draft, including two on two-way deals. The Lakers are expected to re-sign restricted free agent Max Christie, 21, who is reportedly drawing interest from rival teams, although the Lakers could match any offer he receives.
The Lakers’ roster crisis could lead them to explore trades in an effort to both improve and declutter the roster heading into JJ Redick’s first season as coach.
The Lakers originally selected Russell second overall in the 2015 NBA draft. The team traded him to Brooklyn and then reacquired him from Minnesota at the 2021 trade deadline in the Russell Westbrook deal.
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This story originally appeared in the Los Angeles Times.
