D’Angelo Russell Reflects on Lakers Time, Excited for New Chapter with Nets

As D’Angelo Russell prepares to face his former team, the Los Angeles Lakers, with the Brooklyn Nets, he reflects on a chapter of his career that has shaped him in many ways. Following his trade to Brooklyn in late December, Russell is focused on the next phase of his career and moving forward, but not without appreciating his time with the Lakers.

A New Beginning

Russell, who played two separate stints with the Lakers, expressed his excitement about playing against the team that drafted him. “It’s exciting. I’m excited to be on this side attacking those guys,” Russell said. He acknowledged that although many of his close friends remain with the Lakers, this game will offer a fresh dynamic.

In total, Russell played 265 games with the Lakers, making notable contributions in both of his tenures. His time in Los Angeles included significant performances, such as during the 2023 Western Conference Finals, where he helped the Lakers reach an important milestone in their recent history.

Appreciating the Past

Despite the trade to Brooklyn, Russell has expressed deep appreciation for his time with the Lakers. Reflecting on his second stint, he described it as a unique chapter in his career. “It was just a blur,” he admitted. “I was locked into what I had to achieve personally to be there.” His growth, both on and off the court, has shaped his mindset as he embarks on this new journey with the Nets.

Although his time with the Lakers came to an end, Russell recognizes the place the team has in his career. “It’s something you can’t really take back. I appreciate it,” he said. His personal achievements with the team, including breaking the Lakers’ single-season record for three-pointers and setting new career-highs, remain significant milestones in his basketball journey.

Strong Performance with the Lakers

During his time with the Lakers, Russell made a significant impact. Averaging 15.3 points, 4.9 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game, he was an important player in the Lakers’ recent successes. In the 2023 season, Russell’s performance reached new heights. He averaged 18 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game, while shooting 45.6% from the field and a career-high 41.5% from three-point range. His ability to contribute to the team’s offense made him a key piece in the Lakers’ pursuit of success.

A Look to the Future

Despite the emotions surrounding his departure from Los Angeles, Russell is excited about his new role with the Brooklyn Nets. His trade, which also saw Maxwell Lewis join the Nets in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton, marks a new chapter where Russell can continue to develop and contribute to a competitive Nets team.

Although Dorian Finney-Smith remains unavailable for the Nets, the matchup against his former team will offer Russell an opportunity to prove that his best is yet to come. For the Lakers, this game is also crucial as they look to maintain their momentum in the highly competitive Western Conference.

As the Nets prepare to face the Lakers, Russell is looking forward to embracing his future while still appreciating the foundation his past with the Lakers has built. His mindset remains focused on moving forward, and this game serves as a reminder of the growth and development he has achieved in the NBA. With a fresh start in Brooklyn, Russell is ready for the next chapter of his journey, one where he hopes to make an even greater impact.