The 2023-24 NBA season had some challenges for Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell. His role at about the midway point changed, leading to some inconsistent performances and production.
But, since he has settled back into the starting lineup, Russell’s production has taken off. He has looked comfortable playing alongside Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
As his production took off, trade rumors swirling around him did as well. Russell was a name mentioned frequently ahead of the NBA Trade Deadline as someone Los Angeles could look to package for a splash acquisition.
The Lakers didn’t end up making a trade, which has benefitted them greatly. Russell has rewarded them by showing confidence in him, turning in the best shooting season in franchise history.
Russell now sits atop the Lakers’ single-season 3-point shooting list with 219 3-pointers and counting. He broke the record previously held by Nick Van Exel, who made 183 during his second season in the NBA.
Not only has Russell made Lakers history, but he has joined an elite group with his shooting and playmaking this season. He is on pace to become only the third player in NBA history to have 200+ 3-pointers made, shoot 40+ percent on 3-pointers and hand out 400+ assists, joining Stephen Curry and Damian Lillard.
As Jordan Miranda pointed out in his post on X, this was a milestone that Russell nearly reached last season. He fell just short, needing six more 3-pointers and .04 percent on his 3-point shooting.
This is quite an achievement for Russell, who has turned himself into quite a productive player. He is a perfect complement to James and Davis, providing floor spacing and playmaking to help take pressure off of them offensively. Proving to be an efficient third-scoring option, Russell is someone the Lakers should be looking to retain long-term, not flip in a trade for the next star player that becomes available.
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