Lakers rumors: Has D’Angelo Russell finally shown up?

The latest Lakers rumors address how D’Angelo Russell appears to be a changed man.

Remember not too long ago when all of the talk about D’Angelo Russell being a bust was going on? His leadership wasn’t there, play didn’t reflect his draft status, and things weren’t working out the way Los Angeles had hoped.

Suddenly, it’s a whole different conversation now.

After leading the Lakers to a convincing win in Phoenix, Russell has his work cut out for him. The victory ended an awful skid for the Lakers, who had lost eight straight.

One month removed from the taste of winning, D’Angelo Russell decided to step up. Since the team traded Lou Williams, Russell’s consistency and composure is noteworthy.

Additionally, it is worth talking about that his shot selection is different as well.

Reflected in his post-All-Star weekend averages, Russell won’t go away quietly.

Eventually, Russell needs to be the dependable leader on the team. Whether the young core grows to be a playoff threat next season or not, improvement for Russell might as well be mandatory.

By then, it will be his third year in the league. Failing to develop his game at that point might make Magic Johnson think twice if a star becomes available.

There is still a lot to like about what Russell brings to the table, though. Mainly, his effort is what holds some media in question.

What is great for the Lakers, though, is that he’s finally starting to play like a second overall pick. Brandon Ingram isn’t quite there yet, but this is his rookie season.

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Grooming D’Angelo Russell was a challenge the Lakers took on when they decided to draft him. Now with better potential management in place, the burden is on them to get Russell’s full potential out of him.