D’Angelo Russell Trade: Three things to know about the stunning move
By Keith Rivas
The deal actually does help both sides
It’s easy to declare the Nets the winners of this draft, but not so fast. While Brooklyn will get an exceptional guard who has tons of potential, the Lakers weren’t left empty handed.
The 27th pick that they received has been rumored to be part of a pitch to acquire Jimmy Butler. Meanwhile, if they keep Brook Lopez for the full regular season ahead, it’ll be a good way to measure Ivica Zubac.
More from LA Sports Hub
- Lakers: 5 Players to Target Through Trades to make another championship run
- LA Chargers: Week 8 against Denver Broncos is a must-win
- LA Rams: Jared Goff wants to keep the Los Angeles title streak going
- Lakers Rumors: Los Angeles Clippers interested in Rajon Rondo
- LA Chargers: Justin Herbert wins AFC Rookie of the Month
Mozgov was critical of the fact that Zubac was being considered for a starting gig in Los Angeles. Obviously, you wouldn’t expect a guy making that much money to say something else.
But it’s a good time for Zubac to show what he can really do for this team.
Additionally, this move puts the weight, for now, on Brandon Ingram. It’s not something to be taken lightly when your new team president says you’re the only player they won’t trade.
That’s gutsy.
While fans may not agree with this decision — and believe it, there’s a lot of upset fans in this moment — this is a test for them too. There were many calls for changes within the ranks of the Lakers organization.
With Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka at the helm, they got what they wanted. Byron Scott was replaced with Luke Walton, and the team looks to land as many superstars as they can.
Now it’s time to compete.