In the past few days, everyone who follows any sport has probably heard about the drama between D’Angelo Russell and Nick Young of the Los Angeles Lakers. In this article, I will take a look into what transpired, and what the Lakers front office should be doing about it for their future.
First, let’s take a look at what actually happened. In the locker room, D’Angelo Russell filmed Nick Young talking about a encounter with another female, even though he was engaged to Iggy Azalea, and the video became public. Although the two have not called off their engagement, a rift might be growing between them with this act. Azalea has been one of the biggest supporters for Russell since this incident happened. Many fans and players have voiced their frustration at Russell for breaking the “bro code”. We should not be living in a society that encourages cheating scandals, and shunning the player who stands against it, especially if that player is a franchise pillar like Russell is.
On the player side of this story, Julius Randle has voiced support for both parties, and will listen to both sides. He talks about how it is their personal situation, not ours. Kobe Bryant stated on the issue, “It’s just unfortunate, man. It’s tough,” Bryant said. “I’m sure he’ll evolve. I’m sure he will grow and I’m sure he’ll be better from it.” Bryant continues to say we have all made major mistakes, and should not be so hard on Russell. Russell has joked about being the most hated man in Los Angeles, and not being able to show his face around, but fans need to stop this ignorant behavior towards the 20 year old future star. Booing him to start the game on Wednesday night was a truly classless act by the fans of the Lakers. If you would rather have Swaggy P than Russell, you have a very low basketball IQ.
The front office for the Los Angeles Lakers has been relatively quiet on this drama within the organization. Nick Young is not in the future plans for this organization, and with how bad he has been this season, the Lakers should look to buy him out, and trade him at all costs this offseason. Although Russell will have caused a rift in trust between him and his other teammates, he is the biggest key to future for success for the organization. Although Jordan Clarkson and Julius Randle have proven to be good young players to keep around, neither have shown the elite potential to be a game changer, and since the All-Star break, Russell has shown this numerous times. The front office also has to remember, there is a chance they lose their first round pick for this season, and their 2018 first round pick as well, so capitalizing on a talent like Russell is crucial.
By: Mac Crowe, Mac_Truck17
NBA Source Today 