D’Angelo Russell opts into his $18.7 million player option
D’Angelo Russell has opted into his $18.7 million player option.
Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell is picking up his $18.7 million player option for next season to stay in LA, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. pic.twitter.com/H44wduSZL3
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2024
Russell averaged 18/3/6 on 46/42/83 shooting splits. The 28-year-old guard could now be moved in a trade or remain on the roster.
It’s unlikely that the Lakers will keep Russell on the roster. However, their top target, Dejounte Murray, was moved to the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Lakers’ plans to flip Russell may have changed with Murray off the board.
With Russell opting in, he is their biggest trade chip this summer due to his expiring deal.
Due to Russell’s opt-in, the Lakers won’t have access to the non-taxpayer midlevel exception (NTPMLE) at $12.9 million in free agency.
The Purple and Gold will be able to use the taxpayer midlevel exception (TPMLE) at $5.2 million to sign a free agent.
It will be interesting to see if Rob Pelinka trades Russell or keeps him on the roster to start the season.
