D’Angelo Russell made it clear during Mavericks Media Day that his move to Dallas is more than a short-term adjustment.
“Obviously, with Kai out, there’s minutes available, but I’m not looking at it like I’m just holding down the fort,” he said, via Grant Afseth of Dallas Hoops Journal. “I want to establish myself here, be consistent, and help us win games. When Kai comes back, I’ll adjust, but my mindset is to make an impact from day one.”
Russell, who signed a two-year, $13 million deal with Dallas this summer, arrives after stints with the Lakers, Nets, and Timberwolves. Now entering his 11th season, he is tasked with balancing scoring, playmaking, and leadership in a new backcourt alongside Klay Thompson.
Anthony Davis, his former Lakers and current Mavericks teammate, spoke on Russell’s mindset. “D-Lo pushes the pace, he can score, and he’s vocal,” Davis said at media day. “There’s a narrative that he’s not a winner, but I’ve been close to him and I know that’s not true. He had other opportunities for more money, but he wanted to be here and bet on himself. We’re getting a motivated D-Lo who will give everything every night.”
Klay Thompson echoed the same sentiment, highlighting Russell’s role as a stabilizing guard. “D-Lo brings a different dimension at point guard,” Thompson said. “He’s steady, he knows how to play, and he makes the game easier for other guys. You can tell he wants to fit in and help us win. I think he’s going to be big for us.”
Russell averaged 12.7 points and 5.2 assists last season between the Lakers and Nets. His production dipped compared to previous years, but Dallas believes his efficiency and versatility will translate in a system built around veterans and top pick Cooper Flagg.
With Kyrie Irving sidelined to open the season, Russell has an early opportunity to set the tone. He emphasized that his focus is long-term. “I’m not just filling a role,” he said. “I want to grow here and do everything I can to put us in a position to win.”
