D’Angelo Russell trade packages after opting in to his player option
D’Angelo Russell has accepted his $18.7 million player option for the 2024-2025 season. Russell opted to stay with the Lakers, as his market in free agency likely would have been limited.
If the Lakers and new head coach JJ Redick believe in Russell’s abilities, then he may remain on the roster. However, it appears more likely that he will be used as a trade piece now or near the trade deadline in February.
Here are a few trade packages surrounding Russell that the Lakers should consider.
Collin Sexton is a potential trade target for the Lakers, per @DraftExpress
“The Lakers likely will explore the trade market to see what type of veterans they can add to give LeBron James, Anthony Davis and new coach J.J. Redick the best chance of competing this season, with… pic.twitter.com/raFKh0QY9B
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 24, 2024
Collin Sexton
Lakers receive: Collin Sexton
Jazz receive: D’Angelo Russell, a 2025 second-round pick, and a 2027 second-round pick
Collin Sexton isn’t necessarily the third star that the Lakers may be seeking, but he would instantly upgrade the defense at the guard position.
Russell has been a liability on the defensive end, constantly getting targeted by opposing teams. Sexton brings intensity on the defensive end of the floor. He would have the assignment of any team’s top guard next season for the Lakers. He also matches up with Russell on the offensive end.
Sexton averaged 19/3/5 on 49/39/86 shooting splits in the 2023-24 season.
Swapping Russell for Sexton would cause the Lakers to suffer a slight hit in 3-point shooting and playmaking, but the added defensive presence would make up for that loss. Sexton shouldn’t cost the Lakers too many assets. Russell and a couple of future seconds should get this deal done.
Cam Johnson—known for being a sniper & closeout killer, but his defensive tape has a lot to offer
Great hands. Controlled closeouts. Huge positional size. Smooth feet on guards & strong body/length on wings. Excellent team defender in help. 96th percentile D-RPM. Cam = very good pic.twitter.com/e4Vy1sqzMv
— NBA University (@NBA_University) July 28, 2023
Cam Johnson
Lakers receive: Cam Johnson
Nets receive: D’Angelo Russell, Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 2031 first-round pick, and a 2025 second-round pick
Cam Johnson would be a huge pick-up for the Lakers. He is a prototypical 3&D player who should fit seamlessly into JJ Redick’s system. Johnson can easily switch on defense and guard multiple positions while shooting at a 39 percent clip from three-point range.
He would be a vital role player for the Lakers and a sure upgrade at the wing position. Russell would return to Brooklyn as they begin their rebuild and give them a true shooting point guard. Brooklyn would also be relieved of Johnson’s contract as they try to clear the books.
The Lakers would likely have to sweeten the pot to compete with other team’s offers, but the asking price shouldn’t be too high as the Nets are stripping their roster.
Should the Raps hold onto Bruce Brown or use him as a trade chip? 👀 pic.twitter.com/Rdthqvr1nb
— theScore (@theScore) June 28, 2024
Bruce Brown
Lakers receive: Bruce Brown
Raptors receive: D’Angelo Russell, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2027 second-round pick
The Lakers need on-ball defense, and Bruce Brown is one of the best in the game. He would fill in the shooting guard position and shut down any opponent’s top guard. His relentless defense has earned respect around the league.
He doesn’t have a huge impact on the offensive end, but he has earned money through his defense. He is also a veteran with championship experience with the Nuggets. Russell has struggled to guard anyone, and the Lakers should have enough offensive firepower to cover for his loss.
Brown should be a starter and make an impact immediately.
The Lakers are limited with options in free agency, and trading Russell gives them the most flexibility to improve the fit of their roster.
