NBA Rumors: The 3 Teams That Could Welcome D'Angelo Russell
The point guard is looking for a new destination, and the Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, and Miami Heat have positioned themselves to secure his services.
D'Angelo Russell's time with the Memphis Grizzlies could be much shorter than expected. The point guard landed in the franchise just a few weeks ago as part of a major trade involving six teams, but everything indicates that he could change destinations again before the start of the season.
According to Kelly Iko of Yahoo Sports, neither the Grizzlies nor the player see their connection as a long-term fit, and both parties would work together to find a solution during this summer, either through a buyout agreement or a new trade.
A Profile That Doesn't Fit in Memphis' Rebuilding Plan
The information suggests that Russell doesn't align with a project focused on developing young players like Cedric Coward, Zach Edey, and Cameron Boozer, who was the third overall pick in the 2026 Draft.
If he becomes a free agent after a buyout, several teams might consider adding the veteran point guard to bolster their second unit.
Atlanta Hawks, An Option for Adding Playmaking
One potential destination could be the Atlanta Hawks.
CJ McCollum has performed well since joining the team midway through last season, but throughout his career, he has not particularly stood out for his playmaking ability. His average of 3.8 assists reflects a profile more geared towards scoring and outside shooting than playmaking.
Therefore, Siddhant Gupta of Fadeaway World believes that Atlanta would benefit from having a veteran point guard to lead the second unit. The journalist highlights Russell's effectiveness, particularly in static offenses, making him an interesting addition on a cost-effective contract.
Charlotte Needs to Fill the Void Left by LaMelo Ball
The Charlotte Hornets are also among potential suitors.
Following the trade of LaMelo Ball this summer, the franchise needs to find a way to replace the seven or eight assists per game the point guard provided.
Coby White is expected to take over the starting role in the team's playmaking, but having an experienced playmaker to lead the second unit would be an appealing option.
Gupta also points out that Charlotte's rotation of athletic centers and sharpshooters could complement Russell's style of play. Moreover, the limited depth at the point guard position in Charlotte would make the veteran a valuable alternative in case of injuries.
Miami Still in Need of a Point Guard
The third mentioned team is the Miami Heat.
The franchise made a major move this summer with the addition of Giannis Antetokounmpo and is still awaiting the possible arrival of LeBron James.
However, none of these transactions would address the shortage of playmakers following the departures of Tyler Herro and young point guard Kasparas Jakučionis in the trade for Giannis.
Russell would bring experience and could become a key piece in the rotation, especially considering that Davion Mitchell and Dru Smith are currently the main options for the Heat at the point guard position.
A Veteran with NBA Experience
If none of these possibilities materialize, the future of D'Angelo Russell will remain uncertain.
Throughout his 11 seasons in the NBA, the point guard has averaged 17.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, with a shooting accuracy of 36.3% from three-point range.
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rumores NBA: Los 3 equipos que podrían acoger a D"Angelo Russell
