NBA Rumors: Lakers eyeing 2 NBA veteran centers with D'Angelo Russell as potential trade piece
Rumors about the LA Lakers potentially trading D'Angelo Russell have emerged. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Lakers are targeting Jonas Valanciunas and Brook Lopez, with Russell as the trade piece. This wouldn't be the first time "D-Lo" would be mentioned in trade rumors. His remaining salary of $18.69 million makes him a valuable trade piece.
As for Valanciunas and Lopez, it's easy to understand why the Lakers are targeting the two big men. Last season, their star big man Anthony Davis openly expressed that he didn't want to play at the center position. Davis' playstyle is more versatile on offense, as he plays as a forward rather than simply staying inside the paint and waiting for lobs.
Looking at LA's two targets, both Brook Lopez and Jonas Valanciunas are fit to play pure center. Acquiring Lopez will give the Purple and Gold a more solid rim protector, as he is known for his shot-blocking abilities. As for Valanciunas, he'll undoubtedly solidify the paint with his hustle for the boards. It'll come down to what JJ Redick's lineups need.
Looking at D'Angelo Russell's performance with Lakers so far
D'Angelo Russell is now playing in his third season with the LA Lakers. Since joining the squad late in the 2022-23 NBA season, he has undoubtedly proven his worth.
Despite having a minimal amount of time to build his chemistry with his newfound teammates at the time, Russell helped LA make it all the way to the 2023 Western Conference Finals. It's worth noting that the 2022-23 season seemed hopeless for the Purple and Gold as they struggled the entire year to secure a playoff spot.
In just 17 games, Russell averaged 17.4 points, 6.1 assists and 2.9 rebounds. The following season, "D-Lo" more or less put up similar numbers in 76 games. He averaged 18.0 ppg, 6.3 apg and 3.1 rpg. Despite some fans and analysts marking him as an inconsistent player, his numbers are proof that he is a valuable asset to any team.
LA shouldn't have a difficult time acquiring new pieces in their search for a good trade deal. Russell may not be the best shooter, but he can knock down shots for the team when needed. Then there's the fact that he still has a remaining $18.69 million in his contract, giving the Lakers more wiggle room to get more valuable trade targets.