DโAngelo Russell has been struggling as a starting point guard this season, with poor shooting and defense.
Recent Performance Woes
Russell’s performance hit rock bottom during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies. He was playing like he was on a school playground, not caring much about defense.
Coaching Decisions and Trade Rumors
Coach JJ Redick decided to bench Russell for the next game against the Philadelphia 76ers. While both are saying positive things publicly, Lakers president Rob Pelinka might be considering trading Russell due to his lackluster play.
Potential Trade Scenarios
Trade 1: Lakers Get Jordan Poole
The Lakers could trade DโAngelo Russell and Gabe Vincent to the Wizards for Jordan Poole. Some fans might think this is a bad deal at first, but Poole has shown he can score big points in the past. However, he’s known for having an attitude problem and sometimes takes wild shots. Yet his ability to make tough shots could help change games or even playoff series. Vincent hasnโt been performing well either, so it might be worth taking a chance on Poole.
For the Wizards, getting rid of Poole would be beneficial since he’s been underperforming there too. This trade would free them from his contract and align better with their rebuilding plans.
Fans’ Thoughts
We think these trades sound exciting but also risky!
Trade 2: Lakers Acquire Nikola Vucevic
In another scenario, the Lakers could receive Nikola Vucevic and Chris Duarte from the Bulls by trading away Russell along with Jalen Hood-Schifino and Christian Wood. While some fans may hesitate at first glance, acquiring Vucevic would be advantageous for L.A., as he scores well and fits nicely into their lineup alongside Anthony Davis.
The Bulls have wanted to move Vucevic for some time now; this trade helps them rebuild by clearing salary space and focusing on young players.
Trade 3: Walker Kessler Joins Lakers
Lastly, there’s talk of sending Russell plus others like Jalen Hood-Schifino to Utah in exchange for Walker Kessler and Collin Sextonโand maybe even giving up a future draft pick! Kesslerโs rebounding skills would help improve defense but pairing him with A.D may cause spacing issues due to both lacking outside shooting abilities.
Sexton brings energy off-the-bench despite sometimes missing chances when passing isnโt prioritized over shooting himselfโstill providing much-needed boost overall though!
This move positions Jazz towards tanking strategy aimed at securing high lottery picks while adding promising young players such as Hood-Schifino & Lewis alongside valuable future pick from L.A..
