NBA rumors: Bronny James college plans, D’Angelo Russell’s free agency, and more

D’Angelo Russell isn’t committing to a Lakers return

D’Angelo Russell has been much better off in his second stint with the Los Angeles Lakers after being traded away from the Minnesota Timberwolves at this year’s trade deadline.

He and Rui Hachimura, the two biggest deadline additions for the Lakers, have been solid mid-season adds that have helped the Lakers put themselves in the position they are now: Up 2-1 on the defending champion Warriors in the Western Conference semifinals.

The job isn’t done, but Russell has been a quality addition. He’s averaging 16.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, sinking 37.3 percent of his 3-point shots in the playoffs.

Talking to Sam Amick about his free agency, Russell said he would be open to Los Angeles (subscription required), but was hesitant to make a strong commitment. Russell said he would love to stay in Los Angeles, but felt the same about Minnesota.

Russell’s lack of a strong opinion on staying or going could very well be a negotiation tactic to ensure he gets the fairest deal possible from the Lakers’ front office this offseason. But outwardly, it seems like the door is wide open if other suitors want to go after Russell this offseason.

The Lakers drafted him in 2015 and traded him after the 2016-17 season. His second go-around with the team has left him far better received by fans than his first stint.