Hawks fans made their feelings loud and clear Tuesday night regarding the possibility of D’Angelo Russell coming to Atlanta via trade.
Spoiler alert, it wasn’t a warm welcome.
Russell has been linked to Atlanta in NBA trade rumors, with the Lakers reportedly interested in Hawks guard Dejounte Murray.
This idea clearly didn’t sit well with Atlanta fans, who were unforgiving of Russell, chanting, “We don’t want you!” He hit free throws in the first half of the Hawks’ 138-122 win over the Lakers at State Farm Arena.
This disrespect may have rubbed off on the Lakers’ point guard, who only scored nine points in 27 minutes on the floor, making 3-of-11 from the field and 1-of-5 from the field. .
And fortunately for Hawks fans, Atlanta doesn’t seem all that keen on acquiring Russell before the Feb. 8 NBA trade deadline.
ESPN reported last week The Hawks reportedly want Russell to be sent to the third team in any deal that could involve Murray.
The Athletic also reported The Lakers had already tried to trade Russell to the Hawks for Murray, but Atlanta reportedly has interest in shooting guard Austin Reeves returning.
Russell isn’t known for being the most consistent in the postseason, but he has been very strong through 12 games in January.
Heading into Tuesday’s game against Atlanta, Russell was averaging 23.8 points, 6.1 assists and 1.8 rebounds.
Hawks coach Quin Snyder declined to address questions about the rumors surrounding Russell and Murray before the win over LA.
“You shouldn’t even have to answer that question,” Synder told reporters. According to the Los Angeles Times.
“I think I’ve made it clear that I don’t comment on rumors or speculation. It’s not my business.”
