It’s going to be an extremely busy summer ahead for the Los Angeles Lakers as they enter the negotiation table with some of the most important players on their roster. One of them is D’Angelo Russell, who has been having a tremendous campaign for LA in 2023-24.
The 28-year-old signed a two-year contract with LA last summer, which means that he is locked in through 2025. The catch, however, is that he has a player option for next season, making him a significant flight risk for the Lakers this summer.
Los Angeles Lakers Rumors: D’Angelo Russell Not Expected to Pick Up Player Option
There has already been a lot of talk surrounding Russell’s offseason plans, and now renowned league insider Brian Windhorst of ESPN has chimed in with his own report. Speaking on a recent episode of his own podcast, the plugged-in NBA guru stated that he believes Russell will opt out of his contract this summer:
“I think almost certainly he will not pick up the option [with Lakers],” Windhorst said (h/t Legion Hoops on Twitter).
This could be troubling news for Lakers fans, especially considering how Russell has established himself as such a key player for the squad this season.
It’s not all bad, though, because this does not necessarily mean that the former All-Star guard will be leaving Hollywood. While a summer exit is indeed a distinct possibility, Russell could also be opting out of his deal to secure a more long-term contract with the Lakers. He might also be looking for more money than the $18.7 million he will be pocketing if he opts to pick up his player option.
Whatever the case might be, the Lakers’ front office will definitely have their work cut out for them in the offseason, especially with opposing teams reportedly monitoring Russell’s status in LA.
For More NBA Content:
Follow me on Twitter at @PaoloSongcoNBA, and follow us @HardwoodHeroics. You can also reach out to Paolo Songco via email at [email protected]. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest NBA news, click here!
