NBA Rumors: The Washington Wizards' plan with D'Angelo Russell

The Washington Wizards have completely changed the look of their roster in recent weeks. The franchise has added the All-Star duo of Anthony Davis and Trae Young, alongside promising young players like Alex Sarr, Kyshawn George, and rookie Tre Johnson.

As part of the deadline deals, Washington also acquired veteran point guard D’Angelo Russell in the major trade for Davis. However, his future in the U.S. capital is far from being determined.

The general manager of the Wizards, Will Dawkins, explained the situation clearly: they have spoken with the player and his entourage, and Russell will not join the team until both sides determine what is best for his and the franchise's future.

Candidate for buyout

This scenario suggests that the most likely options are either his release or a buyout agreement, as the veteran does not wish to report to the team. Russell is earning 5.7 million dollars this season and has a player option close to 6 million for the next season. Last summer, he signed as a free agent with Dallas, which was seeking a temporary solution until Kyrie Irving returned, but Russell quickly lost prominence and posted career lows with 19 minutes and 10 points per game.

The point guard will turn 30 at the end of the month. Although not at the end of his career, he was coming off his worst statistical season split between the Lakers and Nets, and his time in Washington could end before it even begins. As part of the same Anthony Davis trade, the Wizards also waived Dante Exum, another of the four players who came in that deal.