Grizzlies point guard D’Angelo Russell isn’t seen as a long-term fixture in Memphis. Both sides are expected to work out a resolution that allows the 30-year-old to find a new home this offseason, whether through a buyout or a trade. Can you believe it? He just got there, and now he’s already on the way out the door.
The Whirlwind Tour Continues for D-Lo
This move comes after Russell’s whirlwind journey that saw him land in Memphis earlier this month as part of a massive six-team deal. That trade also brought center Isaiah Stewart, guard AJ Johnson, three future second-round picks, a conditional first-round pick, and a second-round swap to the Grizzlies. Last season with Dallas, Russell only appeared in 25 games and started just three. He seemingly fell out of favor with former head coach Jason Kidd, who had other options like Ryan Nembhard and Brandon Williams. After being traded to the Wizards at the February deadline and then opting into the final year of his $6 million contract in June, Russell is potentially set to join his fourth team in just two years. Talk about a journeyman’s path!
Memphis Goes All-In on Youth, Russell Doesn’t Fit the Bill
Here’s the rub: Russell’s timeline, as an experienced player with over 30 playoff games under his belt, simply doesn’t gel with what a rebuilding Grizzlies franchise needs. They’re dead set on finding young, developmental talent, building around a core of Cedric Coward, Zach Edey, and recent No. 3 pick Cameron Boozer. And let me tell you, those young guns are showing out! Coward and Boozer absolutely impressed in Vegas during summer league, with Coward putting up an average of 19 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds. Boozer even finished that campaign earning first-team honors as the Grizzlies stormed their way to the championship game. Plus, Memphis is dealing with a serious roster crunch after an eventful summer, currently sitting at 21 players, including Javon Small and Jahmai Mashack on two-way deals.
While Russell’s career stats of 17 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 5.6 assists on .427/.363/.793 splits paint the picture of a more than capable floor general, his recent inconsistency requires a bigger picture view. He can create when he dominates the ball, threading the needle with his usage, playmaking, and scoring. But the challenge at his recent stops with the Lakers, Nets, and Mavericks has been finding efficiency within shot distribution and the overall pecking order, not to mention staying effective on defense.
So, what’s next for Russell? There’s no exact timetable, but both sides understand an amicable split is best. Even with a career that’s become a bit of a journeyman’s tale, the veteran guard is still expected to generate interest around the league. His on-court IQ, versatility, and experience are real assets. Now it’s about finding that perfect spot where his skill set fits into an already established ecosystem, a place where the 2015 second overall pick out of Ohio State can make an impact for his next team after 11 seasons across the Lakers, Wolves, Nets, Warriors, and Mavericks.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply