D’Angelo Russell can see a clear benefit to his new LA Lakers role, ‘your career can end there’

The LA Lakers season has been a trying one for all involved with the franchise and DAngelo Russell knows about that all too well.

Russell is still one of the most well-recognised names in the NBA and is now entering his 10th season at the highest level.

At 28 he still has a lot to give to the game but has found his minutes this season severely cut for one reason or another.

Russell has had to get used to playing his part from the bench and Lakers legend James Worthy believes this is his best role for the side.

In his prime, D-Lo was one of the most effective guards in the league especially in 2019 when he was named an All-Star for his all-round impressive numbers.

Since then he has seen a steady decline in his output and this has seen him lose his starting role out on the court.

However, D-Lo explained why he is looking to make the most of his new role.

Russell adapting to new role It certainly isnt a normal feeling for a player of D-Los former quality to be sitting on the sideline.

A star who would demand the ball and be the heartbeat of the team is now having to settle for a reduced role.

There is no hiding that the Lakers have struggled as a team this season and other stars including Anthony Davis have come in for criticism for their displays.

However, it is important that your big-name players continue to show up and buy into the team, and despite not being a regular starter it appears D-Lo is still giving the franchise his all.

D-Lo spoke on his role change and the importance of adapting to your role.

pic.twitter.com/xUcbOAM8GU Speaking to the media about how he is handling his new role, he said: I think you have two choices, you either deal with it and adapt which can control the longevity of your career.

Or you dont and your career can end there.

Its all about adapting so me having to adapt sooner than I expected or what not it is what it is.

Im just doing what Im asked and trying to star in that role.

Many great talents would completely switch off if they were reduced to a bench role but D-Lo is still showing great professionalism in his craft.

D-Los clear drop in numbers As explained earlier, Russell in his prime was one of the best players in the NBA with his ability to not just score points but also find teammates.

The former NBA champion however has seen a drastic dip in his output in recent years and while numbers arent everything they will certainly play a big part in your team role.

In the 2019-20 season where he played 33 games for the Golden State Warriors D-Lo was averaging 23.6 points per game as well as contributing 3.7 rebounds and 6.2 assists.

While there is no doubt that Russell can still put up these numbers on a single night those averages seem a thing of the past.

Heres a look at his averages over the last three seasons.

Its clear to see that D-Los numbers are dropping and while some of this may be down to slightly less court time its still a pretty hefty drop-off.

Lakers fans will be hoping that D-Lo can refind his best form and help propel the side up the Western Conference.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission..

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