The NBA has fined D’Angelo Russell of the Los Angeles Lakers $25,000 for verbally abusing a referee. The incident occurred following his team’s early playoff exit against the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets. This announcement was made today by Executive Vice President and head of basketball operations, Joe Dumars .
The Los Angeles Lakers players throughout the series were so unhappy with the level of officiating that it led superstar guard LeBron James to even air his mind after a series of missed calls by the referee.
D’Angelo Russell finished the 108-106 loss to the Denver Nuggets with 14 points, six assists and one rebound. Furthermore, he averaged 14.2 points, 4.2 assists, and 2.8 rebounds in five games of the series before their exit.
During the regular season, he averaged 18.0 points and 6.3 assists while also setting a franchise record with 226 3-pointers in 76 games played in the regular season. Sadly, the Lakers’ season came to an end on Monday when the Nuggets won the series 4-1. This resulted in coach Darvin Ham getting the sack after two seasons with the franchise.
D’Angelo Russell’s future with the Lakers uncertain
D’Lo once again finds himself on the rumor list of players to possibly leave the Lakers after an underwhelming playoff game. He spoke after his team’s early elimination, discussing how he could leverage his player option, which is worth as little as $18 million.
D'Angelo Russell said he hasn't thought about what he's going to do this offseason but he acknowledges that he has leverage and is planning on using it. Jovan Buha of ‘The Athletic’ revealed on X
His struggles during the playoffs did cost the Purple and Gold as they mostly relied on the output from LeBron James and Anthony Davis. And there is a growing discontent among the Lakers fan base that he needs to move on for the team to achieve the NBA title glory.
Furthermore, whatever decision he chooses should be the best for his career as he reaches the peak end of his career and if he is to fulfill his enormous potential. For now, the Lakers get to lick their wounds and watch from home the rest of the playoffs.
More must-reads: