D’Angelo Russell will likely be a free agent for the second time in two years as he is having a highly productive season with the Los Angeles Lakers. Russell re-signed with the Lakers on a two-year, $37 million deal with Year 2 being a player option. As part of two-year deal, Russell gave up his ability to waive a trade. The Lakers shopped Russell, but they were unable to find a trade partner before the deadline.
“I think almost certainly he will not pick up the option,” said Brian Windhorst on his podcast. “You work your whole life to be coming off a great season and being unrestricted.”
Russell is averaging 18.2 points, 3.2 rebounds and 6.3 assists while shooting 41.9 percent on three-pointers in 73 games this season.
The Lakers will retain Russell’s Bird rights in the offseason.
