The Los Angeles Lakers have been led by D’Angelo Russell in the second part of the 2023–24 season. Anthony Davis and LeBron James are still L.A.’s star players, but it’s Russell who has shocked everyone by having the best stretch of his NBA career.
Russell has averaged 22.1 points and 6.8 assists per game over the last 29 games since January 13. He has shot 47.3 percent, 45.3 percent, and 85.2 percent.
Russell’s play was a big reason why the Lakers were able to keep their season going when it looked like everything was falling apart. The Lakers don’t want to be the ninth seed in the Western Conference, but it’s hard to think where they’d be if Russell hadn’t played so well. When the trade deadline came and went, his play kept him with the Lakers. It may have also given him some negotiating power this summer.
The Lakers’ whole team is pleased with Russell’s play at this level. But Davis is especially happy for the senior guard because on Monday he tied the Lakers’ single-season 3-point record against the Atlanta Hawks, making this season a historic one for the team.
It was amazing. It’s clear that he can score whenever he wants, Davis said. “All season, his shooting has been great for us.” He could get hot at any time. I told him that he might have broken it if he hadn’t made that bad three to start the fourth. He threw it up there. He replied, “I get it.”
“But he can get going and write a lot of points on the stat sheet.” It’s important for him and for our team. There’s been a lot going on around DLo, so being able to hug him and let him feel the love is good for him. He will definitely break it on Friday.”
Russell’s success this season has been helped by the fact that his friends have always stood by him. When Russell was having a bad game and the Lakers were looking to move him, they showed him a lot of love. That kind of support can make a player feel better about themselves.
Once again, Russell has shown what he can do when he’s at his best. He can now enjoy the rest of the season. Until then, he might be able to help the Lakers make another late-season run.