D’Angelo Russell Reflects on His Growth Since Leaving the Lakers

It’s tough to see how the Nets could surpass the Lakers in terms of organizational success. But D’Angelo Russell has a different viewpoint on that.

The current Mavericks guard took a moment to critique the culture he experienced during his early years with the Lakers. He expressed how his time in Brooklyn significantly influenced his development as a player, especially in those formative years.

Having played for the Lakers in two separate terms, Russell’s initial stint lasted just two years after being drafted second overall in 2015. His time in Los Angeles, which included a record of 45-99 under coaches Byron Scott and Luke Walton, led to a trade to the Nets along with teammates Kyle Kuzma and Brook Lopez.

He suggested that the struggles he faced with the Lakers hindered his understanding of what it truly means to be a professional.

“The organizations in Brooklyn are different,” he remarked during a conversation with Dwyane Wade on Wynetwork. “It’s distinctive in how it operates. Everything related to performance, teams, coaches – Brooklyn presents a whole different scenario compared to what I had experienced with the Lakers, where I didn’t have that same structure.”

Reflecting on his journey, Russell noted that he entered the league at 19 and 20 years old, which shaped his early approach to the game. His time at Brooklyn, particularly under coach Kenny Atkinson, marked a turning point for him.

During his tenure there, he averaged 21.1 points and seven assists, making it to the All-Star team in the 2018-19 season and helping the Nets reach the playoffs for the first time since 2015.

“When I got to Brooklyn, it was all about structure and that taught me how to be an expert,” he emphasized, using the word “expert” deliberately. “Before, I had a more casual approach, as if I could just wing it. But they showed me the importance of proper sleep, nutrition, and recovery.”

Now entering his 11th season in the league, Russell is gearing up for another chapter with the Mavericks after signing a two-year, $11.6 million contract. He’s joining forces with Anthony Davis and top draft pick Cooper Flagg.

“That’s why I’m still playing today,” he shared, reflecting on his time with the Nets. “I’m not particularly athletic, so I had to prioritize my body. Recovery and nutrition became essential for me.”