D’Angelo Russell's True Feelings on Nets Return After Lakers Trade

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Madz Dizon | Last updated Jan 2, 2025 1:05 AM ET

D’Angelo Russell has expressed his enthusiasm about rejoining the Brooklyn Nets after being traded from the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Nets acquired Russell and Maxwell Lewis in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. The move marks Russell’s return to the team where he became an All-Star.

Russell, who was drafted second overall by the Lakers in 2015, was traded to Brooklyn by the LA franchise in 2017. He was sent to the Nets along with Timofey Mozgov in exchange for Brook Lopez and the rights to Kyle Kuzma, who was taken 27th overall in the 2017 NBA Draft.

“It’s a good feeling, honestly, to go back somewhere you’re comfortable, somewhere you kind of know the ins and outs a little bit,” Russell said, per The New York Post’s Brian Lewis.

“It kind of makes the process a little easier to adjust to. So, I’m just grateful for that.”

D'Angelo Russell’s return also reunites him with Ben Simmons, a former high school teammate, and positions him alongside rising stars like Cam Thomas. Russell is expected to guide the team both on and off the court.

“I try to give the group what it needs, whether that’s leading by example or helping in other ways,” he added.

Meanwhile, head coach Jordi Fernandez emphasized Russell’s importance to the team, describing him as a skilled ball handler and shooter.

“He brings leadership and playmaking ability, which will be important for us moving forward,” Fernandez noted.

D'Angelo Russell averaged 12.4 points, 2.8 rebounds and 4.7 assists in the 29 games he played with the Lakers this season, per ESPN. His experience and leadership are seen as key assets for the Nets as they navigate their rebuilding phase.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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