D’Angelo Russell Ready to Prove His Worth in Dallas

DALLAS, Texas — D’Angelo Russell is set to make an impact with the Dallas Mavericks after a turbulent stint with the Brooklyn Nets. Last season, the Los Angeles Lakers traded Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round draft picks to the Nets for Dorian Finney-Smith. Now, Russell is determined to show the Lakers they made a mistake in letting him go.

After finishing the previous season with limited playing time on a rebuilding Nets team, Russell signed with the Mavericks to become their starting point guard amidst Kyrie Irving‘s absence. Mavericks management has expressed confidence that Russell can help lead the team as they vie for a championship. “D-Lo has all the potential to shine with us,” a team source said.

During the 2023-24 season, Russell averaged 18.0 points, 6.3 assists, and shot 41.5 percent from beyond the arc. However, his playoff performance raised concerns, as he struggled when defenses tightened. The Lakers might be wishing they had kept him, especially since Finney-Smith and fellow player Milton were lost to free agency.

This season, the 29-year-old point guard feels revitalized and focused. He is making $5.6 million and is ready to prove that he can contribute significantly to a contender. “I want to show the Lakers what they’re missing,” Russell said during a recent training camp session. “I’m ready for this challenge.”

Head coach Jason Kidd has worked wonders with players in the past, helping elevate their performances. Russell’s defensive consistency is also a point of emphasis in Dallas, where he aims to flip the narrative that has followed him through his career.

The Mavericks face the Lakers in what will be a highly anticipated matchup this upcoming season, and players like Russell are eager to compete against their former team. “We all want to prove something,” he added, referring to his teammates Anthony Davis and Max Christie. “This is about making a statement.”

As the Lakers aim to secure a championship with LeBron James and the newly acquired Luka Doncic, they will be watching closely as Russell tries to turn his recent challenges into triumphs in Dallas.