Jan 29, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes guard D’Angelo Russell (0) celebrates following the win over the Maryland Terrapins at Value City Arena. Ohio State won the Big Ten game 80-56. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
D’Angelo Russell
Age: 19
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 193 pounds
Russell is an alternative to Mudiay at the guard spot, as he provides a more methodical and deliberate approach to leading a team.
Even though Russell may not perform the same type of breathtaking feats of athleticism that Mudiay does, he compensates by making pinpoint passes and baffling defenders with his air-tight handle. His wizardry with the ball paired with his size allows him to impact the game by creating for himself or for others. This was obvious last season, when he averaged 19.3 points and five assists per game at Ohio State.
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That versatility would be valued on the Sixers, who were dead-last (by a wide margin) in the NBA in offensive efficiency (points per 100 possessions) last season, with 93 points. Furthermore, Russell’s ability to play a slower pace and make 3-pointers (41.1 percent last season) allows the Sixers to utilize lineups with both Noel and Embiid, without much sacrificing scoring or fluidity. Even executives around the league have recognized the potential threat of that lineup.
Defensively, Russell may be similar to former starting point guard Michael Carter-Williams — though Carter-Williams is slightly taller and has longer arms — as both are relatively tall lead guards who do not have ideal foot speed to be reliable on the defensive end. However, Philadelphia may be able to hide Russell’s defensive weaknesses with Noel and Embiid roaming the paint, ready to send back any shots.
It remains to be seen whether or not Russell can be a dominant scorer, given his size and athleticism, but with the amount of talent the 76ers are stockpiling in the front court and wings, Russell would be welcome addition to a team in need of playmaking ability at point guard.
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