During Game 3 of the Los Angeles Lakers vs. Denver Nuggets matchup, tensions soared as D’Angelo Russell faced a rough night, failing to score a single point and going 0-for-7 from the floor, as per NBA reports.
The Lakers entered the game with a clear objective to secure a win against the Nuggets. However, apart from Austin Reaves, who scored double digits, key players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis failed to make a significant impact, leaving the team struggling.
Adding to the on-court disappointment, fans noticed Russell’s absence from the team huddle, instead catching him snacking on the bench.
D’Angelo Russell Is Reportedly Seeking Options for Exit
This, coupled with being the first Lakers player to exit the game, drew attention and criticism, including from former teammate Nick Young, who expressed his disappointment on Instagram.
The Lakers and their supporters have faced ongoing challenges throughout the 2024 NBA playoffs, failing to secure a victory since the previous year’s playoffs against the Golden State Warriors. With the looming possibility of another defeat to the Nuggets, the team’s playoff hopes hang in the balance.
Meanwhile, speculation surrounds D’Angelo Russell’s future with the Lakers, with rumors suggesting he may opt out of his contract for the 2024–25 campaign.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst addressed this possibility, indicating that Russell is likely to explore free agency, potentially impacting the team’s dynamics moving forward.
