D'Angelo Russell admits slacking and showing lack of professionalism while apologizing to Lakers fans
D'Angelo Russell has faced heavy scrutiny over his second stint with the LA Lakers, with many questioning his mindset and defensive effort. Ahead of the 2024-25 NBA campaign, the veteran point guard took the opportunity to apologize to LA's fanbase, pledging to be more "mature" and "professional."
Russell has served as the Lakers' tertiary scoring option since being re-acquired at the 2023 trade deadline, providing outside shooting and playmaking. Last season, he finished third on the team in scoring (18.0), second in assists (6.3) and first in 3-pointers per game (3.0). He also set the franchise's record for most triples in a season (226).
Nevertheless, Russell's fluctuating defensive effort and selfish play at times frustrated fans, resulting in pleas for the organization to move on from him. Instead, LA retained its starting five this offseason, seemingly banking on first-time coach JJ Redick's new analytics-driven coaching philosophy for improvement.
During NBA Media Day Monday, Russell displayed an optimistic outlook. After apologizing for his performance the past year and a half, he underscored his desire to hold himself "more accountable."
"Honestly, I think I really wanted to apologize in the sense of showing a lack of professionalism at times, showing a lack of team-first perception at times," Russell said.
"So, for me, I think just kind of keeping that maturity and that professionalism throughout the year no matter the ups and the downs, hold myself more accountable on the defensive end."
Russell later reflected on how difficult it has been to be considered a defensive liability, citing his capability on that end of the floor. He added that his increased two-way effort should lead to a prosperous 2024-25 season.
"Obviously, I know I’m capable, but when you get subbed out of the game for offensive-defensive possessions, obviously that shows where your trust is and your coach's [trust is] in your abilities," Russell said.
"So, for me, just trying to gain that trust from Coach defensively, and consistently I’ma show up every day. ... And I think it will just continue to a successful season."
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JJ Redick says D'Angelo Russell will play "major role" for Lakers in 2024-25 NBA season
D'Angelo Russell's apologetic Media Day remarks came a few days after JJ Redick endorsed him.
At his and Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka's Wednesday media availability session, Redick touched on his plans for Russell. He emphasized their burgeoning relationship, noting that he will help the former All-Star have a "career year" as LA's starting point guard.
"I would say throughout the summer, he was probably the guy that I talked to the most of anyone on the roster," Redick said.
"We had a number of conversations during free agency and throughout July and August, and he’s going to have a major role on this team. I think the thing that D'Lo and I have talked about a lot is just like, 'Let’s put you in a position to have a career year.'"
Between Redick's empowering comments and D'Angelo Russell's pledge to become a two-way, team-oriented player, the latter's stock appears to be rising. However, it remains to be seen if Russell's newfound mindset will endure throughout this upcoming season.
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