Sources state that the Orlando Magic are weighing up a summertime move for Los Angeles guard D’Angelo Russell. After inactivity between the Los Angeles Lakers and Russell, the Orlando Magic are reportedly weighing up a move for Russell. Russell, averaging 18.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game, has been phenomenal for the Lakers in the second half of the season. Despite an underwhelming Lakers season, Russell has played his way into the hearts of Lakers fans and some higher-ups at the Crypto.com Arena. However, Russell’s contract expires in 2025, and he could very well decline his player option ($18.7 million) and enter free agency as soon as this summer.
Lakers Guard Linked To Orlando Magic: How Does He Fit?
Tension With The Lakers
There’s also been friction between him and Lakers higher-ups. Magic Johnson labeled Russell as someone who “wasn’t a leader” in the Lakers locker room, while a source reported friction between head coach Darvin Ham and Russell. There’s also a feeling of disappointment among the Lakers. Projected as a title contender in the preseason, the Lakers now find themselves battling for the eighth seed and facing the risky Play-In-Tournament.
Fit With The Magic
Things look way better for the Magic. Although their momentum has slowed in the second half of the season, they’re still a five-seed in the East with the potential to move upwards. Paolo Banchero looks like one of the East’s best forwards, while coach Jamahl Mosley has driven this Magic team to gradual success. It’s a good time to be a Magic fan — the only way for this organization is up.
Not only might D-Lo enjoy a break from the constant drama in Los Angeles, but acquiring Russell makes a lot of sense for the Magic. Orlando has struggled a lot with three-point shooting, while Russell makes nearly 42% of his three. The Magic backcourt is inconsistent and looks on the verge of disbanding, so bringing in Russell would also make for a smart move. Russell could also be a really good influence on the Magic’s young core.
Can It Happen?
Orlando’s interest in Russell looks concrete. Lakers beat writer Jovan Buha told viewers on a YouTube livestream that the Magic’s interest was genuine.
“Orlando is the team that talking to people with the Lakers, talking to people outside the Lakers, Orlando is the team that probably gives them the most concern in terms of a potential suitor.”
Starting point guard Markelle Fultz will be an unrestricted free agent this summer. While Cole Anthony looks best coming off the bench and playing like a true scorer. Russell could be a better fit than Fultz for the Magic. Especially because of his ability to spread the ball, shoot, and drive to the basket.
The Magic also have a lot of cap space to burn, and with Fultz set to leave, they’ll be able to offer Russell somewhere in the range of $25 million per year.
However, Orlando’s interest all rests on Russell rejecting his player option and catapulting himself into the wilderness of unrestricted free agency. Not only is Russell playing a star role and a lot of the ball in LA, but they’re doing pretty well. The Lakers are 13-7 in their last 20, with Russell averaging 19.4 points per game and shooting 42.1% from three.
