D’Angelo Russell opened up about his time with the Los Angeles Lakers, describing his experience as “a little traumatizing” after his return to the Brooklyn Nets.
In an interview with HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, Russell acknowledged the difficulties he faced in Los Angeles while expressing appreciation for his current situation.
“It’s great. I would never take it for granted, coming from where I came from,” Russell said. “Obviously, I was a little traumatized there.”
The 29-year-old guard was traded from the Lakers to the Nets on December 29, 2024, in a deal that sent Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton to Los Angeles.
Since rejoining Brooklyn, Russell has averaged 13.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists in 24.6 minutes per game.
He emphasized the comfort he feels in Brooklyn, crediting head coach Jordi Fernandez for trusting him and allowing him to play his game.
“I’m at the point in my career where I’m not going out and scoring 25 points every night and wowing with numbers,” Russell said. “It’s a point where I’m trying to gravitate towards doing it the right way, and how I can contribute to winning is my priority.”
The former All-Star has embraced a leadership role with the Nets, despite the team’s struggles this season.
Brooklyn currently sits 13th in the Eastern Conference at 22-43, trailing the 10th-seeded Chicago Bulls by 4.5 games in the play-in race.
Despite the Nets’ position in the standings, Russell made it clear he is open to staying in Brooklyn beyond this season.
“Would you be open to returning next season as a Net?” Scotto asked.
“Yeah. Why wouldn’t I?” Russell responded. “I keep seeing stuff coming out. I’ll tell you. Heck yeah. I want to be wherever I’m at. I’m here. I love these guys. I appreciate this, and I would love to be back.”
Russell initially played for Brooklyn from 2017 to 2019, earning an All-Star selection before being traded to the Golden State Warriors in a sign-and-trade deal for Kevin Durant.
Now in his second stint with the franchise, he appears content with his role and eager to help the team rebuild.
His future in Brooklyn may depend on the organization’s direction, as the Nets evaluate their roster heading into the offseason.
With Russell set to become a free agent this summer, his decision could shape the team’s outlook for the 2025-26 season.
