After being traded to the Brooklyn Nets this summer, we explore why D’Angelo Russell can be this year’s Most Improved Player
It’s no secret that D’Angelo Russell’s NBA career has been nothing short of a roller coaster thus far. Up to now, he’s been plagued by social media scandals and inconsistent performances.
The talent that Russell possesses remains undisputed. The former Buckeye averaged 15.6 points, 3.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists this past season (NBA.com), making slight improvements across the board from his rookie year.
This didn’t stop Magic Johnson from pulling the trigger on a trade that sent D’Angelo Russell to Brooklyn, placing the future of the Los Angeles Lakers in the hands of new draftee Lonzo Ball.
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Russell, now 21, finds himself as the face of the Brooklyn Nets. In addition to Russell, the Nets also acquired solid role players Allen Crabbe, DeMarre Carroll and Timofey Mozgov this offseason.
There’s no reason why Russell can’t tap into his all-star potential with the Nets. There aren’t any other brighter prospects on his team, so touches aren’t going to be an issue. In addition, he’s away from the bright lights of Los Angeles, and his team isn’t even the most popular team in the city.
In short, there aren’t going to be as many eyes on D’Angelo Russell in Brooklyn as there would normally be in LA. Less pressure will allow him to perform at a higher level. For arguably the first time in his NBA career, basketball will be his main focus with the way the media portrays him taking a back seat.
Along with D’Angelo Russell being the undisputed No. 1 option, there’s another factor that could fuel Russell’s rise. This of course is the newly found chip on his shoulder. There’s no disputing that there is at least some disdain on Russell’s part towards Magic Johnson and the Lakers organisation. Being traded and instantly replaced after just two years has to leave a bad taste in his mouth.
In Russell’s case, it’s not just the fact that the trade happened. It’s the fact that in year one he put up solid numbers during Kobe’s farewell tour, resulting in an All-NBA Rookie Second team selection come season’s end. In year two, Russell’s numbers increased across the board. Despite the tactical nature of the trade, it doesn’t quite reduce the sting.
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With all this said, there’s no reason why D’Angelo Russell can’t have a breakout year. He’s a potential No. 1 with solid veteran role players around him. At just 21, with a huge chip on his shoulder, the sky still remains the limit for Russell.