When the Lakers acquired D'Angelo Russell back in February, it was seen as a major upgrade over Russell Westbrook, who was compared to a vampire after his exit from the team. At first, Russell was everything the Lakers needed and his shooting from range powered them through the final stretch of the season. But once the playoffs began, his play wavered and he was almost unplayable against the Nuggets.
Looking ahead, with Russell set to become an unrestricted free agent, the Lakers will have to decide which point guard they want to invest in and many aren't sold on D'Lo. Apparently, according to league sources, Russ and his camp are expecting a sign-and-trade with the Heat at some point this offseason.
Of course, the Heat are currently preparing for the NBA Finals so they are not under any pressure to make a trade for a guy like Russell, who has shown flashes of inconsistency throughout this career. Even still, it wouldn't hurt them to chase a ball-handler/shooter given how much Kyle Lowry has struggled since his arrival to the team.
When it comes to D'Angelo Russell, there have always been questions about his work ethic and playstyle, but you cannot deny the skills he brings. Perhaps under Erik Spoelstra and the Heat culture, they can bring the best out of the former All-Star.
Meanwhile, in L.A., the future is still unclear for the Lakers but moves are surely coming this summer given how they finished the season.
The Lakers wouldn't Trade D'Lo without someone to fill his shoes, and Kyrie Irving may be that guy. He has a history with LeBron James and his close proximity in age to Anthony Davis makes him the perfect guy to help him carry the Lakers as LeBron James continues to decline.
Kyrie is no doubt a talent upgrade over Russell and he could be the final piece that puts them over the top. Alternatively, he could end up sowing chaos and dysfunction within the organization.
Regardless, the Lakers will have some tough choices to make this summer, and the point guard situation may be among the most interesting issues of all.
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