Lakers: D’Angelo Russell Looks to ‘Separate’ Himself From Other Rookies
By Eric Yee
Lakers emerging star, D’Angelo Russell, sees Sunday night’s game against the New York Knicks as a big opportunity
Comparing D’Angelo Russell’s season numbers to the rest of the rookie pack, critics would be quick to ask, “Did the Lakers make the right selection last May?”
Fourth overall in rookie scoring, third in assists per game and three point field goal percentage, Russell’s stats paint him as good but not great.
However, it is not until you dive into his stats since being reinserted into the starting lineup that you begin to understand this young man’s true potential.
In his past eight games, D’Angelo Russell has scored 20 plus points in every contest except one, a game against the Atlanta Hawks in which he struggled heavily.
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Further, his minutes are up, turnovers are down and even with that poor performance, in which he shot 3-of-16, he is shooting 47 percent overall and 43 percent from distance.
Russell’s confidence has shone through in his recent post game interviews, where his once unshakable bravado, is now again proudly on display.
In an interview with Mike Bresnahan, he acknowledged that he’s been following the rest of the rookies and knows that now is his time to make a splash.
In specific regards to Sunday’s game against the New York Knicks, a game in which he will match up against rookie peer, Kristaps Porzingis, he stated, “I guess I’ve been making some noise to get some attention . . . A lot of rookies are playing well at this time. It’s a statement game to try to separate yourself.”
Russell’s confidence, paired with his improved play are a great sign for the Purple and Gold who were pondering how they’d survive life without Kobe Bryant just a few months ago.
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Porzingis is averaging 17.5 points and 7.2 rebounds trailing only Rookie of the Year favorite and first overall pick, Karl-Anthony Towns, but with Russell currently on a hot streak, the rookie match up will be an interesting side story to follow.