Quick Bytes
- D’Angelo Russell may decline his $18.6 million player option with the Lakers.
- The Orlando Magic show interest in Russell but not for a higher salary than his current option.
- Russell seeks a long-term deal and the Magic need his offensive skills, despite their playoff loss.
- The Cavaliers plan to keep core players, including Mitchell and Garland, off the trade market.
Lakers’ D’Angelo Russell Eyes Free Agency Amid Magic’s Interest
D’Angelo Russell, the Los Angeles Lakers’ point guard, faces a pivotal offseason decision regarding his $18.6 million player option. After a strong season but a disappointing playoff performance, Russell is contemplating free agency, with the Orlando Magic emerging as a potential suitor.
Despite the Magic’s need for Russell’s offensive prowess and three-point shooting, they are not expected to offer him a salary greater than his current option with the Lakers. Russell’s openness to free agency stems from his desire for a secure, long-term contract, whether with the Lakers or another team. If he opts in with the Lakers, it could provide the franchise with valuable trade leverage or retain a key player from their roster.
Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers are making it clear that they are not interested in trading their core players, including All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell and point guard Darius Garland. With the expectation that Mitchell will sign a contract extension, the Lakers’ potential interest in these players seems to be off the table for the upcoming season.
