D'Angelo Russell's heartbreaking comments show primary flaw in Lakers experience

Los Angeles Lakers point guard D'Angelo Russell is one of the most polarizing players in the NBA. He's an undeniably skilled and gifted individual who has reached the heights of All-Star status, but his postseason shortcomings have made him a regular inclusion on the rumor mill.

Media Day shed a different type of light on the Lakers' best shooter, however, as Russell spoke candidly about the side of trade rumors that fans don't often see.

Russell has been named in trade rumors at various points over the past 12 months. That includes earlier this summer, when it was reported that he was being shopped in the immediate aftermath of his decision to accept his player option.

At Media Day, Russell spoke about the experience of being constantly involved in trade rumors and how the Lakers' new coaching staff has reminded him of what it's like to be wanted.

"Being vocal, in the short time I've been here this summer, I think [JJ Redick] kind of recognized it. He's harped on it a little more than normal. 'Just keep that going. Continue that. We love to see that. We notice it.' Like I said, his kind words mean a lot to me 'cause I'm not used to hearing those."

Some hold to the belief that millionaire athletes should take their criticism in stride, but Russell's comments speak to the unhealthy environment he'd been playing in.

D'Angelo Russell finally has a coach who believes in him

Russell has played five stints with four franchises in nine NBA seasons. That includes two runs with the Lakers, with his first ending with a trade and his current tenure seemingly heading down a similar path.

It's easy to point the finger at Russell for coming up short in the playoffs, but the human element of sports can't be lost in translation.

Russell has been unable to set down roots in any city he's played in, as his longest tenure has been three-and-a-half seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He's preparing for the third season of his current stint with the Lakers, but trade rumors are already circulating.

Redick, however, has changed the tune of how Russell is viewed and treated by his organization.

Redick praised Russell as a leader who will play a "major role" for the Lakers in 2024-25. That's a drastic change from the tumultuous relationship the All-Star point guard had with Darvin Ham, which included a benching that was followed by radio silence about what went wrong.

Ham and Russell were perpetually at odds, but Redick seems to envision a more harmonious between himself and his starting point guard.

Talent certainly won't be an impediment, as Russell ranks among the most productive point guards in the NBA. He, along with Luka Doncic, Damian Lillard, Tyrese Maxey, and Donovan Mitchell, were the only players to average at least 18.0 points, 6.0 assists, and 3.0 three-point field goals made per game in 2023-24.

In 2024-25, Redick is aiming to help Russell reach even greater heights by embracing the need for the human to be as well-coached as the athlete.