A significant adaptation for Los Angeles Lakers’ guard D’Angelo Russell involves adjusting to playing alongside top-tier players. Having previously navigated this with Karl Anthony-Towns and Anthony Edwards during his time with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Russell now finds himself alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis with the Lakers.
Historically, Russell has been recognized as a player who dominates possession, adept at creating his own scoring opportunities. However, he is now refining his game to excel without the ball, a shift that enhances his longevity as a valuable team player.
This season has showcased considerable success for the 28-year-old in off-ball scenarios, as Davis and James consistently position him for scoring opportunities. Russell acknowledges his evolution into one of the league’s premier catch-and-shoot players, a skill set he developed through necessity.
READ ALSOLos Angeles Lakers Expect Cam Reddish’s Return, Provide Updates on Defensive Assets
Reflecting on his collegiate career at Ohio State, Russell notes his former reliance on ball-handling responsibilities. However, his experiences in different team environments, particularly in Minnesota, prompted him to enhance his catch-and-shoot abilities. This adjustment became crucial upon joining the Lakers, where he seamlessly integrated catch-and-shoot techniques with his existing dribble-based shooting.
While catching and shooting may seem straightforward, its importance lies in facilitating team success by complementing star players. Russell emphasizes the necessity of adapting to imperfect passes, a skill he cultivates through relentless practice. By familiarizing himself with receiving varied passes, he fortifies his readiness to capitalize on scoring opportunities, regardless of the pass’s quality.
Russell’s commitment to refining his craft is evident in his career-best 3-point shooting percentage of 42.4% on 6.8 attempts. His ability to stretch the floor complements the Lakers’ offensive strategy, providing crucial spacing for James and Davis. As the regular season progresses, Russell’s proficiency as a shooter remains a valuable asset for the team.
