Lakers: D’Angelo Russell to Train With Magic Johnson This Summer
By Eric Yee
D’Angelo Russell is the latest of the Lakers’ young players who are reportedly going to be working hard to get better this offseason
With news of Jordan Clarkson and Julius Randle‘s devotion to getting in the gym and getting better this offseason fresh off the presses, it was only just a matter of time until D’Angelo Russell was added to the bunch.
Now, just a few days after selecting their new head coach, Magic Johnson has revealed that he is excited to announce that he will be working out with Russell this summer and looks “forward to being a mentor to D’Angelo Russell on and off the court.”
Laker Nation: I had a really good lunch meeting with D'Angelo Russell!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) May 1, 2016
In my meeting with D'Angelo Russell, he picked my brain about the PG position and I'm looking forward to working out with him this summer!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) May 1, 2016
Laker Nation: I'm looking forward to being a mentor to D'Angelo Russell on and off the court.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) May 2, 2016
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During his playing days, Magic Johnson was one of the most dominant forces on the court at the point guard position, so the news that Russell will be training with him this offseason is great news. In regards to his “off the court” work, Russell could use the wisdom of a former player in that aspect as well.
Contrary to his stellar on court career, Johnson has been involved in his fair share of negative publicity surrounding the Lakers especially when it comes to commenting on the team’s front office and their decisions, specifically critical of owner, Jim Buss.
Prior to the 2015 NBA Draft, Russell drew comparisons to Johnson, as even Louisville head coach, Rick Pitino, said “In the last 30 some-odd years, outside of Magic Johnson he’s the best passer I’ve seen come along.”
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However, just like there will never be another player like Michael Jordan, there will never be another prospect quite like Magic Johnson. Regardless, the fact that Russell is trying to pick Magic’s brain and get better is a step in the right direction for second year guard.