D’Angelo Russell is a Los Angeles Laker. What’s most excited about?
"“Everyone’s used to winning down there.”"
RELATED: Top 10 Lakers Draft Picks of All-Time
He steps into a crazy bright spotlight, as the starting point guard for the Lakers, but his confidence seems genuine. That quote, more than anything else, should excite fans.
Russell being selected represents the Lakers adapting to a new NBA, one dominated by the lead guard. Something to keep an eye on this season: given this attitude toward success as a Laker, Russell will probably be Las Vegas’ odd-on favorite to win Rookie of the Year.
For those worried about his fit with Kobe and Clarkson, hearing that, you have to feel a lot more comfortable about everything the three will do to make things work.
If it takes Russell coming off the bench, and he’s serious about winning. Great, it sounds like he might be willing to do so. If it takes Clarkson coming off the bench as Russell steers the offense, he’s ready to go. If it takes staring Kobe down as he demands the ball for the millionth time in a row, yeesh. I feel bad for the kid.
Russell understands the end game in Los Angeles. Now, can he help the Lakers do so?
I can’t wait to find out.