Lakers rumors: Is D’Angelo Russell on the path to being a superstar?

Mar 28, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell (right) moves the ball past Washington Wizards guard John Wall (left) during the first quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 28, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell (right) moves the ball past Washington Wizards guard John Wall (left) during the first quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /
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October 22, 2015; Anaheim, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell (1) controls the ball against the Golden State Warriors during the second half at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
October 22, 2015; Anaheim, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell (1) controls the ball against the Golden State Warriors during the second half at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Closing Thoughts

Now that we know what we know, it’s time to come to a conclusion. The obvious answer is yes, D’Angelo Russell is on the right track. His improved attitude along with adjustments in his game over the summer serve as additional proof.

It’s about more than just numbers for him, though. One thing the Lakers front office and fans alike must keep in mind when evaluating him has to do with his surroundings. Curry, Irving, and even Parker all thrived at their positions — but success finally hit when they were surrounded with the right pieces.

This only further emphasizes that the Lakers can’t afford to mess up in the 2017 NBA draft. Additionally, Russell is still getting the hang of playing under Luke Walton. A shaky rookie year in terms of chemistry thanks to Byron Scott is still wearing off.

Once that’s all in the clear, we could see a top point guard emerge donning purple and gold.

It would get a big monkey off of Russell’s back put on him by fans critical of his lack of super stardom. The elephant in the room of whether or not he’s a bust would also be put to rest.

Next: 3 Reasons Lakers Should Go After Carmelo Anthony

But for now, that’s as far as the argument goes for the Lakers point guard.