After being traded by the Los Angeles Lakers in January, D'Angelo Russell returned to the Brooklyn Nets for a second stint. Now, with free agency looming this summer, the 28-year-old guard is facing a major decision about his NBA future.
Russell is in the final year of his two-year, $36 million contract, which he signed with the Lakers in 2023. With the Nets entering an offseason full of roster uncertainties, his contract will be a key topic of discussion.
The former No. 2 overall pick originally joined Brooklyn in 2017 after being traded from Los Angeles, where he played two seasons. During his first Nets stint, Russell became an All-Star in 2019 before being traded to the Golden State Warriors and later the Minnesota Timberwolves. He rejoined the Lakers in 2023 before being dealt again at the trade deadline this year.
Now back with the Nets, Russell spoke with Brian Lewis of the New York Post, revealing his thoughts on his future with the franchise.
"I don't think it's in my control, to be honest," Russell said. "I've been on the team before where everybody was free agents, too. So they've got the leverage, they've got the cards. If they decide to bring me back, cool. If not, we'll figure it out…"
Russell also noted that despite his years in the league, he has never experienced free agency and is eager to see what happens this summer.
"I don't think I've ever been a free agent," Russell added. "I look back on it, I've never been. For me, it's a weird feeling, but see how it goes. I signed an extension with the Lakers, two years - one-plus-one, player option. I just never hit (free agency). So I'm excited to see."
D'Angelo Russell discusses his future and if it will be with #Netshttps://t.co/UZngZvHfyo
— Brian Lewis (@NYPost_Lewis) March 16, 2025
Since joining the Nets, Russell has averaged 13.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists in 23 games. However, he is enduring one of the worst shooting slumps of his career, posting 38% from the field, 30% from three, and 83% from the free-throw line.
While Russell has made it clear he wants to stay in Brooklyn, the Nets-who lead the NBA in future draft picks (31) and have $60 million in cap space- will have to decide whether they want to invest in him long-term or move in a different direction.
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This story was originally published March 17, 2025 at 1:32 PM.