When point guard D’Angelo Russell returned to the Los Angeles Lakers at the trade deadline last season, it was a welcome change of pace. Russell developed into a more complete player after being traded away from Los Angeles, so it was a sort of homecoming for both teams.

However, in the present, Russell is once again expected to leave the Lakers. After two consecutive bad playoff performances, Russell may be on the outside looking in on the Lakers’ intentions. 

He remarked after the club was eliminated, stating that he has leverage this year going into the summer and intends to use it. Russell does have a player option for slightly more than $18 million, which he may not see on the open market.

While he had a strong regular season, his shortcomings in the playoffs are worrying. Because of this, teams may be hesitant to sign him to a longer contract, potentially leading Russell to exercise his player option.

If he achieves that, he is likely to be traded this summer. The Lakers hope he opts in so they can trade him for something. 

Russell is a wonderful match on the court with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, but his postseason struggles are real. If the Lakers want to legitimately compete for a championship with this core, Russell will most likely be unable to participate.