Los Angeles Lakers point guard D'Angelo Russell candidly shared his thoughts after being at the center of numerous trade rumors leading up to this season's trade deadline last February 8.
The Lakers have encountered a season marked by performance fluctuations, prompting fans and observers to call on general manager Rob Pelinka to explore trade options.
Russell has emerged as the primary candidate for a potential transaction due to his contract and decent value. The 6-foot-3 playmaker opened up about the situation during an appearance on the latest episode of The Backyard Podcast.
"I just tried to approach it with a zen mentality. Knowing that I can't control those things but also knowing that it is what's going on and that's what's evolving around me. So being present within it but also not letting my mind get taken over by it," the 28-year-old said.
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The Lakers ultimately did not make any trade
As the trade deadline passed, the Lakers opted not to engage in any trades. Their sole significant move during this period was the acquisition of guard Spencer Dinwiddie from the buyout market.
"We survived. It's good to survive. It's just a good weight off the shoulder. All in all, that's what it was for me," the former Ohio State Buckeye admitted.
Russell has maintained averages of 17.8 points, 6.2 assists, and 2.9 rebounds in 58 games in 2023-24, with 51 of them as a starter.
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