The downfall of D’Angelo Russell must be studied. Seriously, though, the former second overall pick has gone from an 18-PPG scorer two years ago to a hot potato and candidate for a salary dump at age 29, effectively out of the rotation on his third team in since last season. The Milwaukee Bucks are one team looking to capitalize off his decline. Per senior insider Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Bucks are exploring pathways to absorb Russell’s contract from the Mavericks in exchange for second-round draft assets. For a Milwaukee team likely headed for a second-half tank, it’s a move that actually makes sense.
Bucks provide salary relief in exchange for picks
Dallas signed Russell in free agency hoping for a veteran leader at point guard. Russell hasn’t been atrocious; he just isn’t a part of the team’s future. Despite a fairly inexpensive salary – $5.6 million this season with a $5.9 million player option next year – the Mavericks are seeking to move off him in order to save on their tax bill. As a team on the cusp of the second apron, Russell’s impact is substantial given luxury tax multipliers.
In year 11, Russell is averaging 10.2 points and four assists on 40.1/29.5/71.7 splits. He has not appeared in a game since January 10 despite being available to play.
Mar 31, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard D’Angelo Russell (1) falls to the floor during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
With $11.5 million of tax space themselves, the Bucks could send a pair of expiring minimum salaries (Cole Anthony and Amir Coffey) for Russell. While the Mavericks would only shed around $1 million in payroll this season, the real benefit would be dumping Russell’s player option in ’26-27. Taking back multiple second-round draft picks, even those far in the future, would make the move appealing for Milwaukee.
Dallas has a 2030 second-rounder via Philadelphia and their own 2032 second-rounder available to trade.
In his Saturday newsbreak, Scott also reported that the Bucks are eying Nets guard Cam Thomas. Without a third team involved, it’s hard to see them netting assets in return. At least within the confines of a two-team trade, relieving the Mavericks of Russell offers far more benefits for a Bucks team waving the white flag on the 2025-26 season.
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