When D’Angelo Russell drained a game-winning three-pointer against the Denver Nuggets in March 2024, it was more than just a clutch shot—it was a reminder of how far the guard has come since his rookie days with the Los Angeles Lakers. D’Angelo Russell has evolved from a promising but raw prospect into one of the NBA’s most reliable playmakers and floor spacers, a player whose ability to balance scoring and passing makes him a valuable asset to any team lucky enough to have him.
Early Career & Draft Days
The 2015 NBA Draft saw the Lakers select D’Angelo Russell with the second overall pick, hoping he’d become the face of their rebuild. At 19, Russell showed flashes of brilliance: his court vision was evident in the way he threaded passes through tight windows, and his jump shot had the smooth release that hinted at future greatness. But young players often face growing pains, and Russell was no exception. Adjusting to the NBA’s pace and physicality took time, and he struggled to find consistency in his first two seasons. Still, those early years laid the foundation for the player he would become, teaching him patience and adaptability.
Breakout with the Brooklyn Nets
In 2017, D’Angelo Russell was traded to the Brooklyn Nets—a move that changed his career trajectory. In Brooklyn, Russell was given the freedom to lead the offense, and he seized the opportunity. During the 2018-19 season, he averaged 21.1 points and 7.0 assists per game, earning his first All-Star selection. That year, he led the Nets to their first playoff appearance in four years, proving he could carry a team as its primary playmaker. His three-point shooting was a highlight: he shot 36.9% from beyond the arc, knocking down crucial shots in pressure situations. Fans and analysts praised his growth, noting how he’d turned into a player who could both score and set up teammates effectively.
Transition Period: Warriors & Timberwolves
After his successful stint in Brooklyn, D’Angelo Russell was traded to the Golden State Warriors in 2019. Playing alongside Stephen Curry (when healthy) and a recovering Klay Thompson forced him to adapt to being a secondary playmaker, focusing more on scoring and floor spacing. Later, he moved to the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he continued to refine his game. In Minnesota, playing with Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards, his playmaking shone—he averaged 18.1 points and 7.1 assists per game in his first season, helping the team reach the playoffs. These transitions taught Russell how to thrive in different offensive systems, making him a more versatile player.
Return to the Lakers: Homecoming & Championship Contention
The 2023-24 season marked D’Angelo Russell’s return to the Los Angeles Lakers, a homecoming that excited fans and the player himself. Back in LA, Russell found his place alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, two of the league’s top superstars. His role was clear: be a reliable floor spacer and secondary playmaker. Russell’s three-point shooting was a perfect fit for the Lakers’ offense—his catch-and-shoot ability opened up the paint for AD and LeBron to attack. Additionally, his playmaking relieved ball-handling pressure from LeBron, allowing the King to focus more on scoring and defense. In key moments, Russell stepped up as a scorer, hitting big shots to help the Lakers win games. His return has been a win-win, as he’s become a key piece in a championship-contending team.
Playing Style & Core Strengths
D’Angelo Russell’s playing style blends finesse and intelligence. One of his biggest strengths is his three-point shooting: a career 36.7% shooter from beyond the arc, he’s particularly deadly from the corners and above the break. His catch-and-shoot accuracy makes him a nightmare for defenders, who can’t afford to leave him open. Beyond shooting, Russell is an elite playmaker—his passing accuracy is top-tier, delivering pinpoint passes to cutters or shooters even in tight spaces. His basketball IQ allows him to read defenses quickly, making the right decision to shoot, pass, or drive. He’s also improved his ability to create his own shot off the dribble, using crossovers and step-backs to get open looks.
Impact on Team Dynamics
For any team, having D’Angelo Russell on the roster changes the offensive dynamic. His floor spacing forces defenders to spread out, creating more room for teammates to operate. For the Lakers, this means LeBron and AD have more lanes to drive or post up. Russell also takes pressure off the primary playmaker—when LeBron is off the court, he can run the offense smoothly, ensuring the team’s rhythm doesn’t drop. Moreover, he’s a reliable scorer who can put up points in bunches, crucial during stretches when core players struggle. His balance of scoring and passing makes him an asset in any system.
Future Outlook
As D’Angelo Russell enters his prime, the future looks bright. With the Lakers, he has a chance to contend for his first NBA championship. He continues to refine his game—working on defense (an area of past criticism) and growing into a leadership role. As he matures, Russell could mentor younger players and help the team maintain its competitive edge. Beyond LA, his versatility means he’ll always be in demand. Whether he stays in Los Angeles or moves elsewhere, D’Angelo Russell is poised to leave a lasting mark on the NBA.
Conclusion
D’Angelo Russell’s journey from a young prospect to a seasoned All-Star is a testament to his hard work and adaptability. He’s evolved into one of the league’s most well-rounded guards, combining elite shooting with playmaking prowess. His return to the Lakers has solidified his place in a championship-contending team, and his impact on modern basketball—with its emphasis on floor spacing and positionless play—can’t be overstated. As he continues to grow, D’Angelo Russell is not just playing the game; he’s shaping it, one three-pointer and one precise pass at a time.