Lakers To Begin Extension Negotiations With New Acquisition

His second go-round with the Los Angeles Lakers is only three games old, but interest in a new contract extension has already been discussed. Point guard D'Angelo Russell is set to become a free agent after the season, unless the two sides come to an agreement first.  

D'Angelo Russell and the Lakers are expected to begin contract extension negotiations "in the coming days or weeks," per @wojespn on NBA Countdown.

Both sides have mutual interest in reaching an agreement. pic.twitter.com/yd9szbOIG2

— Unbiased NBA Fan (@nonbiasednbafan) February 16, 2023

Se espera que D'Angelo Russell y los Lakers comiencen las negociaciones de extensión del contrato "en los próximos días o semanas", según @wojespn en NBA Countdown.

Hay un interés mutuo en llegar a un acuerdo.

pic.twitter.com/ZUp9mtgaXQ

— LA CEJA (@lacejadeLA) February 16, 2023

 According to ESPN Insider Adrian Wojnarowski, Russell and the Lakers are expected to begin contract extension negotiations "in the coming days, weeks, or months," adding that the assets the Lakers gave up at the trade deadline signal that they didn't get him to be a "rental", but rather a “solution at that point guard position."

Russell began his NBA career with the Lakers back in 2015 after they made him the 2nd overall pick in the NBA Draft. He only spent two seasons with them back then, but now it's expected this reunion could lead to a more substantial relationship. 

Russell is averaging 17.8 points, 3.1 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.1 steals in this, his 8th season in the league. The Minnesota Timberwolves, the team he came over from, weren't expected to re-sign him this summer.

Photo: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports