2016 NBA Rookie Ladder: How High Is Russell's Ceiling?

2016 NBA Rookie Ladder: How High Is D’angelo Russell’s Ceiling?

Jan 7, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell (1) reacts after making a shot against the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Sacramento Kings defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 118-115. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports /

8 of 11

Jan 7, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell (1) reacts after making a shot against the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Sacramento Kings defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 118-115. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports /

4. D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers

Before the draft D’Angelo Russell looked like next guard who could take the NBA by storm because of his combination of scoring prowess and court vision.

He had his struggles starting the season, but Russell has figured a few things out heading into the league’s second act.

The question begs answering though: how high is Russell’s ceiling as an NBA star?

His raw numbers don’t scream superstar, as he’s only averaging 11.7 points per game on 40.5 percent shooting from the field. However, don’t let those stats fool you. If you use the eye test on Russell, he passes in almost every category.

During his domination of the Sacramento Kings he showed off the entire package: inside scoring, perimeter shooting, passing ability and quality defense. There wasn’t anything he couldn’t do.

This is the kind of potential this kid has. He’s only 19, which means he has a lot of room to grow.

I know Emmanuel Mudiay has a ton of upside left thanks to his elite athleticism, but he isn’t the crafty offensive talent and dead-eye shooter that Russell is.

Showtime is coming back to the Lakers thanks to Russell. He’s got next as a star point guard in this league.

Next: Turning A Corner In Philly?