5 potential D’Angelo Russell replacements for Lakers this offseason

5 potential D’Angelo Russell replacements for Lakers this offseason: Cole Anthony

This may not be a name that becomes available for trade this summer but based on the moves the Orlando Magic have made, trading Cole Anthony wouldn’t be the craziest idea.

Orlando drafted Anthony Black, a point guard, with the sixth pick in the draft. They also have Markelle Fultz and Jalen Suggs already on the roster, both of whom run the point.

Trading Anthony, who will be due a contract extension very soon, in an attempt to gain a better positional balance on the roster could make some sense, whether that be a Rui Hachimura sign-and-trade or a Jarred Vanderbilt deal.

For the Los Angeles Lakers, Anthony would provide them with some extra shot creation in the starting lineup, and for the time being, it would be at a solid cost.

Anthony is set to make $5.53 million this upcoming season but, as noted, will be entering the final year of his contract, meaning he will need a contract extension.

The Lakers could run Austin Reaves at the other guard position next to Anthony, allowing both to share ball-handling duties, with LeBron James obviously taking on that responsibility as well.

Fresh off the most efficient season of his young career, Anthony would not only be a solid D’Angelo Russell replacement, but he would also keep the Lakers young, improving the outlook of their team now and for the future.

Potential starting lineup: Cole Anthony, Austin Reaves, LeBron James, Jarred Vanderbilt, Anthony Davis